Detecting Flap Congestion with Blood Glucose Measurement
Author Information
Author(s): Hara Hisako MD, Mihara Makoto MD, Narushima Mitsunaga MD, Yamamoto Takumi MD, Todokoro Takeshi MD, Araki Jun MD, Iida Takuya MD, Koshima Isao MD, Shim Timothy Weng Hoh MD
Primary Institution: The University of Tokyo, Japan
Hypothesis
Can blood glucose measurement help in early detection of venous thrombosis in surgical flaps?
Conclusion
Low capillary blood glucose levels in congested flaps can indicate early venous thrombosis.
Supporting Evidence
- Blood glucose levels were low in flaps with early venous thrombosis.
- The method allows for early detection of flap congestion before discoloration occurs.
- Blood glucose measurement is more quantitative than traditional flap monitoring methods.
Takeaway
Doctors can check the sugar levels in skin flaps after surgery to see if there's a problem before it gets worse.
Methodology
Blood glucose levels were measured in two cases using a capillary blood glucose-monitoring device postoperatively.
Limitations
The cutoff value, sensitivity, and specificity of blood glucose measurement for diagnosing flap congestion are not yet determined.
Participant Demographics
Case 1: 47-year-old male; Case 2: 32-year-old male.
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