Transcutaneous PO2: a potential monitor the status of replanted limb parts.

In animal and human investigations, transcutaneous PO2 proved to be a sensitive and rapid indicator of the patency of the artery and veins supplying a limb part. Furthermore, transcutaneous PO2 indicated the presence or absence of collateral circulation. Commercially available transcutaneous PO2 probes were easily applied to human fingers and dramatically reflected the compromise of finger circulation by the inflation of a blood-pressure cuff around the arm. Probe temperatures from 42 to 44 degrees C appeared to provide satisfactory sensitivity and safety. On the basis of these studies, we conclude that transcutaneous PO2 monitoring holds sufficient potential for the evaluation of replanted limb parts to deserve a clinical trial.