Abstract
The Tissue Oximeter OXY-2 is a device to measure local tissue oxygen saturation ( StO2 ) noninvasively using near-infrared light. In the present study, we report our experience of this device in postoperative continuous flap monitoring. Seven free flaps ( gracilis flap : 2, anterolateral thigh ( ALT ) flap : 1, latissimus dorsi ( LD ) flap : 1, fibula graft : 1, toe transfer : 1, toe joint transfer : 1 ) and two pedicle flaps ( reverse posterior interosseous artery flap ( PIA ) : 1, LD island flap: 1 ) were monitored until the third postoperative morning. Eight of nine flaps survived without complications. The StO2 values of gracilis, ALT, fibula, toe and toe joint flaps fluctuated somewhat during the first 40 hours and then subsequently stayed between 70 and 82%. Generally, the StO2 values of the LD flaps were lower than those of the other flaps ( 50 ∼ 60% ). The PIA flap used for a child with radial ray deficiency, who had demonstrated an StO2 value lower than 30% just after surgery, developed necrosis within 24 hours after the operation. The OXY-2 has the potential to become a useful device in flap monitoring during the postoperative period. However, special attention should be paid in mounting the oximeter probe and the cord on non-flat surfaces of the extremities.
