THE MEASUREMENT OF REDUCTION TIME OF BLOOD IN THE CAPILLARIES OF THE SKIN

Abstract

An apparatus and technique are described for the estimation of the O2 supply to the skin. By spectroscopic observation of the a band of oxy-Hb in the light reflected from the skin of the first interosseous space of the hand, it is possible to measure the interval between sudden occlusion of the circulation and the disappearance of this band. This interval is called the "reduction time" of the blood. The reduction time in normal subjects averages about 35-40 secs., with a minimum of 25 secs. and a maximum of approx. 60 secs.