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Continuous free flap monitoring: a modification of the Licox catheter probe system

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Abstract

Early recognition of flap failure is the solution for flap salvage. Many methods have been used to monitor free flaps. The Licox Catheter pO2 Micro-Probe instrument is used for continuous determination of oxygen partial pressure in body fluids (pO2) and tissues (ptiO2). Minimally invasive catheter microprobes are used as sensors. Based on our experiences with this kind of tissue-oxygen measurement and according to our clinical experience, the Licox catheter probe system was modified. An online alarm system was developed to inform medical staff at the exact moment when the Licox software detects a definite fall in the ptiO2 level in the transferred flap tissue. This modified device not only allows staff-saving free flap monitoring but is also time saving and facilitates online monitoring with the possibility of an immediate surgical intervention if vascular impairment should occur. This is a relevant factor for the success of a surgical revision

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical School, University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18–20, 1090, Vienna, Austria

    L.-P. Kamolz, O. C. Aszmann, P. Giovanoli, R. Koller & M. Frey

  2. Department of Biomedical Engineering and Physics, Medical School, University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18–20, 1090, Vienna, Austria

    H. Lanmüller

Authors
  1. L.-P. Kamolz
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  2. H. Lanmüller
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  3. O. C. Aszmann
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  4. P. Giovanoli
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  5. R. Koller
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  6. M. Frey
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Correspondence to L.-P. Kamolz.

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Kamolz, LP., Lanmüller, H., Aszmann, O.C. et al. Continuous free flap monitoring: a modification of the Licox catheter probe system. Eur J Plast Surg 26, 140–143 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00238-003-0521-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00238-003-0521-x

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