Evaluation of Predictive Values of an Automatic Device Measuring Oximetry in Free Flaps

Abstract

Summary: Free-flap monitoring is challenging to perform in some centers. It requires the availability of trained health care personnel for 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Many methods had been proposed for flap monitoring, and none of them are superior to clinical evaluation. This study aimed to present a murine model to evaluate the accuracy (sensitivity, specificity, and the positive or negative predictive values) of a device. Wistar rats weighing 240–490 g were included for intervention and data collection. A murine model of left inferior epigastric vessel flaps was implemented. Intermittent pedicle clamping was performed to calculate the accuracy of the device that detects flow obstruction. The general variables studied were age, weight, and gender. The sensitivity, specificity, and negative or predictive values were calculated. The results showed a sensitivity of 97%, a specificity of 95% with a positive predictive value of 95%, and negative predictive value of 97%. The sensitivity and specificity showed excellent results within the range of clinical security. We require more data to analyze the multiparameter monitoring to see if it is feasible and cost-effective.