Preamputation Evaluation Of Limb Perfusion With Laser Doppler Imaging And Transcutaneous Gases

Main Category: Bones / Orthopedics
Also Included In: Rehabilitation / Physical Therapy;  MRI / PET / Ultrasound
Article Date: 14 Apr 2007 - 8:00 PDT

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We compared preamputation assessments of leg ischemia with laser Doppler imaging (LDI) and transcutaneous partial pressure of oxygen (TcPO2) and carbon dioxide (TcPCO2) in 31 male subjects with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and severe leg ischemia and 29 age-matched male control subjects. TcPO2 and TcPCO2 were evaluated with Novametrix monitors, and perfusion (flux) of skin topically heated to 44 °C and adjacent nonheated areas were evaluated with a Moor Instruments LDI scanner.

LDI was superior to TcPO2 in correctly discriminating between ischemic and nonischemic skin. The results suggest that an LDI ratio below 5 indicates nonviable skin.

PVD is quite prevalent among veterans, and results in amputations, disability, and mortality. Availability of methods to quantify responses of skin vasculature will help in the early diagnosis and management of PVD.

This article can be found in the Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development Volume 43, Number 7, Page 891

About the Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development (JRRD)

JRRD has been a leading research journal in the field of rehabilitation medicine and technology for more than 40 years. JRRD, a peer-reviewed, scientifically indexed journal, publishes original research papers, review articles, as well as clinical and technical commentary from U.S. and international researchers on all rehabilitation research disciplines. JRRD's mission is to responsibly evaluate and disseminate scientific research findings impacting the rehabilitative healthcare community.

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