Application of transcutaneous oxymetry in vascular surgery

Our study is aimed at the assessment of transcutaneous oxygen pressure tension measurements (tcpo2) application in relation to evaluation of results of vascular operations upon chronic ischaemic limbs and choice of amputation level if necessary. 269 patients were examined. All measurements were performed with the help of Hellige Oxymonitor SM 361 and a Polish one. A Clark-type electrode was attached to the surface of the skin at the dorsum of the foot and 1/3 upper tibia level (10 cm below lower margin of the patella). In several cases 1/3 lower thigh level was examined too. The clinical status of patients appeared to reflect tcpo2 values. Correct process of healing was observed to start from tcpo2 critical value of 40 mmHg. Tcpo2 method seems very useful for assessment of results of blood-flow reconstruction operations and choice of most advisable level for chronic ischaemic limb amputation.