Transcutaneous partial oxygen pressure assessment of the ischemic lower limb.

As a result of these studies, it can be concluded that the TCpO2 is a reliable indicator of the state of perfusion of the skin in both the healthy and ischemic legs and can be used to predict the healing potential if amputation is performed. The most meaningful reading is obtained at 10 centimeters below knee anteriorly. The critical value is approximately 35 millimeters of mercury, since the pO2 value for below-knee amputations performed upon most patients with a 10 centimeter below knee amputation was less than this, further surgical treatment was required, while all patients with values above this underwent successful amputation. Determination of the 10 centimeter below knee-control site ratio does not appear to provide any further advantage over the absolute 10 centimeter below knee site value. However, the control site measurement should be taken to eliminate central circulatory failure. The technique can be easily undertaken by hospital technicians or regular nursing or junior medical staff. A site reading requires an average of 35 minutes. The capital outlay is well within the capability of an average general hospital, and the running costs are negligible.