Preoperative assessment of hand circulation by means of doppler ultrasonography and the modified Allen test

Abstract

Objective: The aims of this study were as follows: (1) to evaluate Doppler ultrasonography in assessing hand collateral circulation; (2) to define the criteria for an abnormal Doppler ultrasonography dynamic test result; and (3) to validate the modified Allen test. Methods: The hand circulation of 71 patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass grafting was assessed by means of the Allen test and Doppler ultrasonography. The flow in the superficial palmar branch of the radial artery, the ulnar artery, and the dorsal digital thumb artery with and without radial artery compression were recorded. Flow patterns in the superficial palmar branch of the radial artery, the ulnar artery, and the dor..