The value of intraoperative monitoring using the pulse volume recorder during peripheral vascular reconstructive...

Despite precautionary measures, occasional intraoperative technical problems are encountered during vascular procedures. Early detection and correction at the time of initial operation afford the best opportunity for long term success of vascular reconstruction. From early 1978 to the middle of 1979, more than 400 vascular reconstructive procedures were monitored intraoperatively using the pulse volume recorder, a type of air plethysmography. In at least 15 instances, the pulse volume recorder was deemed instrumental in detecting an intraoperative technical misadventure. In all instances, the technical problem was corrected before the patient left the operating room. Intraoperative monitoring with the pulse volume recorder is a useful method to complement physical examination and angiography in the immediate evaluation of the results of arterial reconstructive procedures. Routine use could decrease technical complications and early graft failures in peripheral vascular reconstructive operations.