Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026

Dual-mode Imaging of Cutaneous Tissue Oxygenation and Vascular Function
Published on: December 8, 2010
A comparison of changes in the transcutaneous oxygen tension and capillary blood flow in the skin with increasing
G C Xakellis1, R A Frantz, M Arteaga
1Department of Family Practice, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City 52242.
Abstract:
Two measures are being advocated to evaluate physiologic changes associated with compression of skin: transcutaneous oxygen tension (tcO2) and laser-Doppler blood flow. This study asked: 1) What changes occur in tcO2 and laser-Doppler blood flow with increasing compressive weight; and 2) do these measures respond differently to increasing weight? An indenter was used to apply incremental weight to the trochanter of healthy volunteers. During the first session, tcO2 was measured, and laser-Doppler blood flow was measured during the second session. The mean values of tcO2 and laser-Doppler blood flow were analyzed for significant changes over the range of applied weight. If significant change occurred, the polynomial that best described the data was determined. Mean values for tcO2 showed a significant decrease with increasing compressive weight. Its decrease was described by a second degree polynomial (quadratic). The weight that resulted in the tcO2 reaching zero for individual subjects ranged from 400-1000. Mean values for laser-Doppler blood flow showed a significant decrease with increased weight. The decrease was best described by a first degree polynomial (line), which is a different pattern from the tcO2. Laser-Doppler blood flow continued to decline with increasing weight beyond the point where tcO2 reached zero. During low-flow states, tissue oxygen utilization may exceed oxygen delivery and lead to ischemia even though capillary closure has not occurred.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of Diffusion and Perfusion
The Role of Diffusion in Respiration
Diffusion is the process by which molecules move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. In the respiratory system, this principle...
Pressure Relationships in Thoracic Cavity
Breathing Mechanisms
Both intra-alveolar and intrapleural pressures rely on specific lung properties. The ability to breathe—allowing air to enter the lungs during...
Oxygen Transport in the Blood
Pulse Oximetry
Purpose
Average SpO2 values are greater than 95%. If the readings fall below 90%, it indicates that...
Assessment of the Cardiovascular System III: Palpation
Jugular Venous Pressure (JVP) Measurement
Position the patient at a thirty- to forty-five-degree angle or in a semi-fowler's position. Look for the highest point of pulsation in the internal jugular vein and measure the vertical distance to the angle of Loius or sternal angle. A normal JVP is 3-4 cm above the...

