An on-line monitoring system for lactate in blood is described. The system consists of a sampling unit allowing dilution at the sampling point, a sample treatment unit for dialysis of the sample and an enzyme reactor with immobilized lactate oxidase. A Clark electrode is used as transducer. The enzyme preparation shows high storage stability and good operational stability. The system was used, during and after open-heart surgery, to follow fluctuation in the concentrations Of L-lactate in blood being pumped to and from the brain. A small difference of approximately 0.3-0.5 mM was monitored.