Transcutaneous measurements of oxygen (tcPO2) and carbon dioxide (tcPCO2) are useful in the intensive care unit because they provide continuous and non-invasive estimation of arterial blood gases. In patients with compromised peripheral blood flow the cutaneous values will reflect the haemodynamic changes as blood is shunted away. They have been increasingly used in a variety of clinical situations, such as assessment of skin flap viability, drug evaluation, prediction of wound healing and selection of amputation level in peripheral vascular disease. From a review of available literature it appears that transcutaneous monitors have found another application as indicator of local tissue perfusion.
Dynamic Lycra pressure orthoses (or garments) have been used in recent years as a treatment modality for children with motor impairment, namely cerebral palsy. Improving function is the ultimate goal of prescribing such garments, but there are other important beneficial effects, such as improving proximal stability to help posture and function. This article attempts to explain, in view of current knowledge, how and why dynamic Lycra pressure garments are used and their benefits to children who wear them, providing an outline of current theories behind their function. Two case reports are detailed and some areas for further research are identified.
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