what is Microcirculation examination
In recent years, research results have shown that it is of great clinical significance to apply MCE to stroke patients. To understand this problem, we must first know what is MCE.
Microcirculation refers to the blood circulation in the microvascular structure between human arterioles and venules, which is the most distal part of the circulatory system. MCE can observe the fluid circulation dynamics of cell tissue material, energy and information exchange. There are about 10 parts of microcirculation that can be observed in the human body. For clinical convenience, the microcirculation of the nail bed of the fingers (toes) and the conjunctiva of the eyes of patients is often selected for examination as a microcosm of observing the microcirculation of the whole body.
MCE has important clinical significance.
Firstly, it can be used as an observation index of pathogenic factors affecting the body, which is helpful to clarify the pathogenesis of the disease; Secondly, MCE can be used as a reference index for the diagnosis of disease, and can cooperate with other examinations to judge the severity of disease. In addition, it can also be used as an objective index to observe the therapeutic effect, analyze the therapeutic mechanism of drugs, and provide a scientific basis for the clinical application value of the new method.
Because stroke is an acute and chronic cerebrovascular change, the microcirculation system is easy to change in the process of onset. Some people observed the nail fold microcirculation of stroke patients and found that about 40% of patients had tortuous and neoplastic canalicular loops. The tube loops of half of the patients were indistinct and irregularly arranged, and the tube loops were thicker and shorter than those of normal people.
The micro blood volume caliber of the affected limb of hemiplegia patients after stroke is thicker than that of the healthy side, the blood color is darker, the blood flow speed becomes slower, and there may be bleeding and bleeding. It was observed that the microcirculation of stroke patients was reduced in the number of loops. The tension of the pipe wall is poor. After active treatment, the condition improved, and the above changes also improved.
MCE is a procedure used to assess the tiny blood vessels in the body, particularly those in the skin and mucous membranes. These vessels play a crucial role in maintaining overall health by delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues and removing waste products.
Here is a general outline of the process involved in MCE:
- Patient Preparation: The patient is typically asked to rest for a few minutes to ensure that the examination reflects the baseline microcirculation. This helps to minimize the effects of external factors such as physical activity or stress.
- Site Selection: The area of the body to be examined is selected based on the clinical question or the suspected site of microcirculation dysfunction. Common sites include the nailfold (the skin around the fingernail), the retina (in ophthalmology), or the oral mucosa.
- Imaging Setup: Depending on the method used, the patient may be asked to sit or lie down comfortably. The imaging device, such as a microscope with a camera or a specialized microcirculation imaging system, is positioned to capture the microcirculation at the selected site.
- Imaging and Recording: The microcirculation is visualized using high-resolution imaging techniques. For example, in nailfold capillaroscopy, a small drop of oil is placed on the nailfold to enhance visibility, and the area is illuminated and magnified. The images or videos of the microcirculation are recorded for analysis.
- Analysis: The recorded images are analyzed to assess various parameters of the microcirculation, such as the number, shape, and diameter of the blood vessels, the blood flow velocity, and the presence of any abnormalities like capillary dilation, irregularities, or new vessel formation.
- Interpretation: The findings are interpreted in the context of the patient’s clinical history and other diagnostic tests. Abnormalities in the microcirculation can indicate various conditions, including diabetes, scleroderma, or other systemic diseases.
- Reporting: The results of the MCE are documented in a report, which may include recommendations for further testing or treatment based on the findings.
MCE is a non-invasive and valuable tool for assessing the health of the microvascular system, which can provide important insights into the overall health status of an individual.
