The applicability of transcutaneous oxygen tension measurements (TCpO2) at rest and after a postischemic response test was investigated in a control group and in patients with peripheral atherosclerosis. Three parameters were evalu ated : oxygen reappearance time (ORT), oxygen recovery index (ORI), and rest ing oxygen tension (ROT). ORT distinguished controls and patients, as well as patient groups. An ORT ≥ twenty seconds is indicative of peripheral circulatory insufficiency and seemed to be dependent on the postischemic reappearance of blood flow. ORI did not separate the groups as well as ORT and was signifi cantly reduced only in patients with critical ischemia. It is concluded that mea surement of ORT, ORI, and ROT are easily performed, assessing oxygenation of the skin. ORT probably indicates the function of supplying arteries. ORI is related to compensatory mechanisms and changes in the microcirculation.
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