Monitoring free flaps with Cook-Swartz implantable Doppler probe in head-and-neck reconstruction.
Research article published in European annals of otorhinolaryngology, head and neck diseases (2025)
Abstract
Postoperative monitoring of free flaps has traditionally been based on clinical assessment, interpretation of which may be subjective. The Cook-Swartz implantable Doppler probe enables continuous objective real-time monitoring of blood flow at microvascular anastomoses. We report our experience with a cohort of 181 consecutive patients operated on between 2019 and 2025. Arterial placement of the probe was preferred after an initial experience of venous monitoring, and provided a clear and easily interpretable signal. The device demonstrated excellent diagnostic accuracy, with a positive predictive value of 100% for the detection of vascular anomalies. However, early detection does not always guarantee flap salvage. Clinical examination remains indispensable, particularly for detecting venous thromboses that may be overlooked on arterial monitoring alone. The Cook-Swartz implantable Doppler system is a reliable easy-to-use adjunct to clinical monitoring of free flaps in head and neck reconstruction.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Resumen
Postoperative monitoring of free flaps has traditionally been based on clinical assessment, interpretation of which may be subjective. The Cook-Swartz implantable Doppler probe enables continuous objective real-time monitoring of blood flow at microvascular anastomoses.
Por qué esto importa para la hirudoterapia
Este reporte describe la experiencia con la sonda Doppler implantable Cook-Swartz para la monitorización postoperatoria en 181 reconstrucciones consecutivas de colgajos libres de cabeza y cuello (2019–2025), hallando una exactitud diagnóstica excelente con un valor predictivo positivo del 100 % para la detección de anomalías vasculares mediante la colocación de la sonda arterial, aunque señala que la exploración clínica sigue siendo esencial para detectar las trombosis venosas. La reconstrucción con colgajo libre con riesgo de trombosis venosa representa un contexto clínico donde puede emplearse la terapia con sanguijuelas para el rescate de la congestión. Sin embargo, el estudio no aborda el uso de sanguijuelas, los métodos de rescate de colgajos ni los resultados de la hirudoterapia; se centra exclusivamente en la tecnología de monitorización.
Citación
Monitoring free flaps with Cook-Swartz implantable Doppler probe in head-and-neck reconstruction.
Cervini et al. · European annals of otorhinolaryngology, head and neck diseases, 2025
Contexto clínico relacionado
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Añadido a la biblioteca ASH: May 28, 2026 · Última actualización del sitio: 18 de junio de 2026