Pre- and postischemic transcutaneous oxygen tension measurements and the determination of amputation level in ischemic limbs.

The value of transcutaneous pO2 (TCpO2) measurements in determining amputation levels was studied in patients with atherosclerotic lower limb ischemia. A postischemic TCpO2 response did not predict healing of the amputation stump better than measurements at rest. No minimal resting or postischemic TCpO2 was found below which healing could not occur. However high TCpO2 values probably are indicative of a good healing potential. In patients with poor skin viability, assessed clinically, the method may be of value; in some cases TCpO2 values compatible with healing may be found. Attention should be paid to the TCpO2 sensor as its characteristics may influence the measurements in patients with critical ischemia causing underestimation of tissue pO2.