The Value of the Photoplethysmograph in Monitoring Skin Closure in Microsurgery

L. R. Scheker; P. G. Slattery; J. C. Firrell; G. D. Lister

doi:10.1055/s-2007-1007039

Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Table of Contents

J Reconstr Microsurg 1985; 2(1): 1-4
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1007039

ORIGINAL ARTICLE

The Value of the Photoplethysmograph in Monitoring Skin Closure in Microsurgery

L. R. Scheker¹ , P. G. Slattery¹ , J. C. Firrell² , G. D. Lister³

¹Former Christine Kleinert Fellow in Hand Surgery, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky
²Louisville Institute of Hand and Microsurgery, Jewish Hospital, Louisville, Kentucky
³Department of Surgery (Hand), University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Excessive tension during skin closure may impair flow in a free tissue transfer. Objective methods to observe skin perfusion have been developed. One of these, photoplethysmography, is commonly used for postoperative observation of flow in free flaps. This article demonstrates that valuable information can be obtained with photoplethysmography during wound closure also.

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