Peripheral Perfusion Index Versus Serum Lactate Levels as Predictor of Postoperative Complications and Prolonged ICU Stay After Lengthy Surgical Procedures: a Prospective Observational Study

Many patients undergoing long time surgery will manifest increased level of blood lactate.

Hyperlactacidemia can cause disturbance of internal environment, then leading to increased complications and longer ICU stay, even death. For postoperative patients, we must ensure adequate perfusion in order to minimize the length of hyperglycemia and improve patients' outcomes. With regard to lactate, it provides information about prefusion, but not timely enough for its delay on reflecting hypoperfusion. And it's not real-time and non-invasive.

Peripheral perfusion index (PPI) is an indicator reflecting hypoperfusion in critical patients. It is measured using pulse co-oximetry technology which is characterized by being real-time and noninvasive. PPI is defined as "the ratio of pulsatile blood flow to the non-pulsatile blood flow", mirroring the strength of blood flow and quality of perfusion at sensor site, reflecting perfusion state of the body part . In contrast to lactate value, it's real-time and easy to monitor.