Investigation of Oxygen Exchange in Human Paranasal Sinuses with a Small P_O2-Electrode

Abstract

A method has been elaborated for the continuous recording of the oxygen content in the human maxillary sinus by using a small P_O2-electrode (Ø 1 mm) which, placed in a cannula, is introduced into the sinus. Model experiment at different P_O2 and different temperatures showed that the electrode has satisfactory stability. The response time is 3 seconds. The stability is not changed by introducing the cannula with the electrode through a 2 mm rubber membrane, simulating the perforation of the medial bony wall of maxillary sinus. Measurements in fluid and in gas give almost identical values. Thin layers of albumin or nasal mucus on the electrode do not disturb the results. The presented method has several advantages in comparison with those previously used, but a difficulty sometimes encountered is to get a smooth tight Teflon membrane around the tip of the electrode.