Allen's test
Allen's Test
Allen's Test (pronounced: /ˈælɪnz tɛst/) is a medical procedure used to assess the arterial blood flow to the hands. The test was named after Edgar Van Nuys Allen, an American cardiologist who first described the procedure in 1929.
Etymology
The term "Allen's Test" is derived from the name of its inventor, Edgar Van Nuys Allen. The word "test" comes from the Old French test, meaning "small vessel".
Procedure
The Allen's Test is performed by having the patient clench their fist, then the examiner compresses both the radial and ulnar arteries, obstructing blood flow to the hand. The patient then opens their hand, which should appear blanched (pale). The examiner then releases one of the arteries. A positive test is indicated by a return to the hand's normal color within 5-15 seconds, suggesting that the released artery is supplying adequate blood flow to the hand. If the hand remains blanched, the test is negative, indicating inadequate blood flow.
Clinical Significance
Allen's Test is primarily used to evaluate the adequacy of blood circulation in the hand before procedures that require cannulation or occlusion of the radial artery (e.g., cardiac catheterization). It helps to prevent ischemic complications.
Related Terms
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Allen's test
- Wikipedia's article - Allen's test
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