[Differential value of the diagnostic options to determine the level of amputation]

The level of amputation after utilizing all possible options of revascularization is considered one of the substantial criteria for sufficient reconvalescence, recovery of mobility, reduction of perioperative mortality and, finally, social reintegration. In case of vascular genesis, the possibilities to reestablish or improve arterial perfusion need to be proven. According to the data from the literature on the various technical methods, only the ptO2 measurement has become widely accepted to determine efficiently the level of amputation. In addition, study results have given evidence for the distal shifting to the genual and infragenual level of amputation. Furthermore, a good prognostic value has been achieved with measures of radionuclide imaging. An alternative but simple procedure including influencing factors and standards of measurement is the determination of the systolic occlusion pressure. Further technical advances can be achieved by a combination of methods but this requires the systematic verification prior to their use. However, their technical potential and options appear to be not fully utilized yet.