Capillary blood gas analysis in complex regional pain syndrome: a pilot study

Background: The pathophysiology of complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (CRPS 1) is still a matter of debate. An inflammatory reaction may cause the syndrome. Increasing evidence points to a role for impairment of oxygen metabolism in the affected limb.

Methods: In this pilot study (16 patients) we performed capillary blood gas analysis in extremities with acute CRPS 1, in order to assess oxygen saturation and lactate concentrations. Comparison was made with the unaffected limb for capillary blood pH, pO₂, SaO₂, and lactate and glucose concentrations.

Results: No statistically significant differences could be found.

Conclusions: Capillary blood gas analysis is not useful to detect changes in oxygen saturation and lactate concentrations in CRPS 1.