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Related Experiment Videos

The Allen's test: analysis of four methods.

D G Levinsohn1, L Gordon, D I Sessler

  • 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, UCSF School of Medicine 94143.

The Journal of Hand Surgery
|March 1, 1991
PubMed
Summary

The laser Doppler Allen's test accurately assesses hand collateral circulation. The pulse oximeter method is unreliable and should be avoided, while the subjective method offers quick screening.

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Area of Science:

  • Vascular Surgery
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

  • Allen's test is crucial for evaluating hand collateral circulation before procedures.
  • Assessing the accuracy of different Allen's test methods is essential for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the diagnostic accuracy of four Allen's test variations.
  • To identify the most reliable and practical method for assessing collateral circulation in the hand.

Main Methods:

  • Four Allen's test methods were employed: digital systolic blood pressure (standard), subjective assessment, pulse oximetry, and laser Doppler flowmetry.
  • Comparison of results from each method against the digital systolic blood pressure standard.

Main Results:

  • Laser Doppler flowmetry demonstrated accuracy comparable to the digital systolic blood pressure method, with added ease of performance.
  • Pulse oximetry yielded false-negative results in 2 of 3 abnormal hands.
  • The subjective method identified 11 abnormal hands, including those with abnormal digital systolic pressure.

Conclusions:

  • Laser Doppler Allen's test is accurate, rapid, and user-friendly for assessing hand collateral circulation.
  • Pulse oximeter Allen's test is not recommended due to potential for dangerous false-normal results.
  • Subjective Allen's test serves as an effective preliminary screening tool.

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