In cardiac surgery, a blood oxygen saturation connector refers to a connector or adapter that allows the oxygen saturation meter to be connected to the extracorporeal circulation tube during cardiopulmonary bypass. This connector is typically used to monitor the oxygen saturation levels of the patient's blood as it passes through the extracorporeal circuit, which includes the oxygenator, tubing, and other components.
During cardiopulmonary bypass, the blood is diverted from the patient's body and circulated through the extracorporeal circuit, where it is oxygenated and returned to the patient's body. By monitoring the oxygen saturation levels of the blood at various points in the extracorporeal circuit, the medical team can ensure that the patient is receiving adequate oxygenation and identify any potential issues with the circuit or oxygenation process.