TOURNIQUET PRESSURES ON PEDIATRIC-PATIENTS - A CLINICAL-STUDY

A clinical study was undertaken to evaluate pneumatic tourniquet press ures required for hemostasis in extremity surgery of pediatric patient s. Occlusion pressures were measured by Doppler, and tourniquet pressu res were set 50 mm above this value. Of 29 cases, 86% were determined to provide adequate hemostasis throughout the procedure. Maximum mean pressures used in the upper and lower extremity groups were 173.4 +/- 11.6 mm Hg (range: 155 to 190 mm Hg) and 176.7 +/- 28.7 mm Hg (range: 140 to 250 mm Hg), respectively, accounting for adjustments made to in adequate initial settings. This study suggests that lower tourniquet p ressures than previously used may be needed to maintain adequate hemos tasis in pediatric patients.