Michigan Medicine study finds pulse oximeters inaccurately measure blood oxygen levels in Black heart failure patients, potentially affecting access to life-saving treatments.

A Michigan Medicine study reveals pulse oximeter readings may inaccurately measure blood oxygen levels in Black heart failure patients, potentially limiting their access to life-saving treatments like heart pumps and transplants. Researchers discovered that pulse oximeters underestimate blood pumping and overestimate blood vessel resistance in Black patients, which could disqualify them from receiving heart pumps or transplants. The US Food and Drug Administration is discussing ways to improve pulse oximeter performance regarding skin pigmentation, race, and ethnicity. Until improvements are made, medical professionals should consider alternative methods for measuring hemodynamics in Black patients with heart failure.

February 21, 2024
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