THE EFFECT OF AN IMPLANTABLE DOPPLER PROBE ON THE SALVAGE OF MICROVASCULAR TISSUE-TRANSPLANTS

One hundred forty-seven flaps in 135 consecutive patients undergoing m icrovascular transplantation were monitored using a miniature Doppler ultrasonic probe. Using a modification of a technique described previo usly by Swartz, the probes were secured to the outflow vein of the fla p with Vicryl mesh. Twenty instances of thrombosis or spasm were detec ted in 16 patients, and all flaps were salvaged (100 percent). There w ere four false positive and no false negative results. This probe allo ws for safe, continuous monitoring of flap blood flow, which permits t he rapid detection and hence rapid treatment of postoperative complica tions. Our experience suggests that a significant improvement in the s alvage rate of microvascular transplants may be attainable with the us e of this device.