Differential thermometry as a monitor of blood flow in skin flaps.

An instrument for monitoring the blood flow in skin flaps by temperature measurement is described. This compares the temperature of the flap with adjacent normal skin. An experimental assessment of the technique is presented. Although many of the problems associated with absolute temperature measurement were eliminated, the reaction to circulatory change within a flap was slow. However, with further refinement, the principle may have a place in clinical practice, especially in replantation surgery.