What is the purpose of using air-oxygen mixtures in medical gas therapy?

The use of air-oxygen mixtures in medical gas therapy primarily serves to prevent hyperoxia, which is an excess of oxygen in the body, and to provide specific therapeutic ratios tailored to a patient’s needs. This enables healthcare providers to deliver the right concentration of oxygen while ensuring adequate ventilation and gas exchange. For example, in conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), it may be beneficial to maintain a lower oxygen saturation to avoid the risks associated with high oxygen levels, which can cause issues like respiratory depression.

Furthermore, administering controlled ratios of air and oxygen allows for more precise management of a patient's respiratory needs, addressing their unique pathophysiological conditions. Ultimately, the goal is to optimize oxygen delivery while minimizing potential complications that can arise from either hypoxia (too little oxygen) or hyperoxia (too much oxygen).