VALIDATION OF THE SENSORMEDICS (S2900Z) METABOLIC CART FOR PEDIATRIC EXERCISE TESTING

The accuracy of many microprocessor controlled exercise testing system s has not been established, particularly for testing children. A metab olic cart (Sensormedics S2900Z) was validated against a reference syst em (Douglas bag) in children. The systems were tested using 10 active, healthy children (age 11.6 +/- 2.3 yrs) during physiological steady s tate at two exercise intensities, submaximal walking and running. Eigh t children performed a high ventilatory flow (HVF) protocol, running f or 11 min. All 10 performed a low ventilatory flow (LVF) protocol, wal king for 11 min. In both, gas samples were measured after 6 to 7 and 1 0 to 11 min into the Douglas bag, and after 8 to 9 min by the test sys tem. There was minimal evidence of bias for VO2 at either ventilation rare. Greater variability was noted for FeCO2 and VCO2. In conclusion, the Sensormedics S2900Z appears to be adequate for testing children.