| Abstract: | Conclusion The use of a pulse oximeter, which is readily available in the ICU, can be of immense benefit to determine the status of distal
limb perfusion in neonates and children who are suspected of having a vascular compromise, and the pulsations cannot be appreciated
due to the presence of limb edema.
Limb warmth and capillary filling are the primary indicators of vascularity but may be misleading in some patients. The presence
of poor quality tracings or absent tracings is a definite indicator of significant ischemia.
The use of a pulse oximeter, for determination of oxygen saturation, was declared by Severinghaus and Astrup to be “arguably
the most significant technologic advance ever made in monitoring the well being of patients during anaesthesia, recovery and
critical care. Perhaps the use of the pulse oximeter for determination of distal perfusion can further augment the statement.
Editor Note The authors are to be congratulated for their observations which are clinically relevant. However we urge them to continue
their study and obtain meaningful data, with proper statistical analysis. For the time being these observations may be considered
preliminary. |
