[Continuous recording of cardiac output volume with the OptiQ system--experiences with clinical application].

This report discusses initial experiences with the clinical application of continuous cardiac output measurement (OptiQ SvO2/CCO-System). The system was used in 9 intensive care patients suffering either global cardiac insufficiency or systemic inflammatory response syndrome. Continuous cardiac output measurement was recorded during a period of stable blood pressure conditions and compared with the results of the conventional thermodilution method (bolus technique) in these patients.