Allen's test

Allen's test is used to functionally examine the arteries of the upper limbs distal to the wrist.

Examined blood vessels

 * a. radialis;
 * a. ulnaris;
 * superficial palmar arch;
 * deep palmar arch.

Execution

 * 1) We will examine and mark the sites for palpation of the radial and ulnar artery.
 * 2) The patient then rhythmically clenches his hand into a fist several times and finally leaves it tightly clenched.
 * 3) In the places we have marked, we compress both blood vessels to prevent blood flow.
 * 4) Let the patient's fist loosen, fingers and palm should be pale. (If they're not, we probably haven't pinched the arteries enough.)
 * 5) During constant compression, the patient hangs his hand and we then release the pressure on one of the arteries. The patency of the artery and the corresponding arc is manifested by reddening of the hand within a few seconds.
 * 6) Repeat the test for the second artery of the same hand and then for the other hand.

Related Articles

 * Examination of arteries
 * Ratschov test