Skin surface PO2 and blood flow measurements over the ischial tuberosity

The effect of externally applied load on skin blood flow was examined over the ischial tuberosity by using skin surface oxygen measurements, photoelectric plethysmography, and thermal clearance measurements. The load applied to each transducer in turn was increased every 10 minutes until blood flow was occluded. Cut-off pressures of 40 to 48kPa (300 to 360 mmHg) were recorded. Differences between the average pressure over the entire indenter and pressures at its center were investigated. A combined pressure and PO2 measuring device is presented.