[Transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2): advantages and limitations]

The measurement of transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2), a non-invasive method to quantify skin oxygenation, is particularly useful in advanced stages of arteriopathy of the lower limbs for evaluation of cutaneous ischaemia. It is a predictive factor for spontaneous healing when pressure is above 30 mmHg or, on the contrary, of an unfavourable course when pressure is less than 10 mmHg. Dynamic tests (change in limb position, exercise test, induced ischaemia test, O2 inhalation) have been used to improve prognostic value for measurements between 10 and 30 mmHg. TcPO2 provides additional support for the decision to perform revascularisation surgery and serves as an indicator of amputation level and as a means of quantifying the benefit offered by a surgical procedure or a drug treatment. It is widely used in assessment of trophic disorders of the foot in diabetic patients.