Analyzing the value of monitoring duodenal mucosal perfusion using photoplethysmography

Photoplethysmography (PPG) is a technique that permits noninvasive measurement of changes in the volume of tissues. A novel device uses PPG to assess changes in duodenal mucosal perfusion. When tested in septic piglets, data obtained using this device correlate with the blood lactate concentration and duodenal serosal microvascular blood flow as measured with a laser Doppler flowmeter. This new PPG-based approach for continuously monitoring gut mucosal perfusion warrants further development, leading to prospective clinical trials in patients.