A new model to assess tcpO(2) changes during heat-dependent vasodilation: preliminary observations

The transcutaneous pO(2) (tcpO(2)) changes induced by the increase of tempe rature to 45 degrees C after electrode stabilization at 37 degrees C were c ontinuously recorded. The mathematical analysis of the curve led us to iden tify three different parameters: the half-slope "b" time, the angular "m(T) " coefficient and the angular "m(b)" parameter, which are not simply the ex pression of the maximum vasodilation capacity but mainly of the dynamic res ponse of the microcirculatory system to skin heating. These parameters deri ved from the computerized mathematical analysis of the curve can be also ob tained by a graphical approach with a very good approximation. The angular "m(b)" coefficient was shown to possess the highest statistical power in di scriminating the POAD patients from normal controls. The clinical relevance and the possible pathophysiological meaning of these preliminary observati ons have to be confirmed.