Table 3.

Metathemes that Scored >10% in Frequency for Each Technique

Monitoring Technique	Most Common Themes	Proportion %
NIRS	Lack of quantitative/objective values	23.86
	Cost	23.86
	Probe contact limitations	14.77
	Variation with physiological factors	12.50
Clinical monitoring	Interpretation requires expertise	25.25
	Unsuitable for buried flaps	21.21
	Lack of quantitative/objective values	19.19
	Lack of continuous monitoring	11.11
Handheld Doppler	Cannot identify offending vessel	57.58
	Unsuitable for buried flaps	18.18
Duplex Doppler	Interpretation requires expertise	38.10
	Lack of continuous monitoring	14.29
	Cannot identify offending vessel	14.29
	Cost	11.90
Laser Doppler	Lack of quantitative/objective values	26.09
	External artifact	15.22
	Variation with physiological factors	11.96
	Cost	10.87
Microdialysis	Local tissue trauma	23.08
	Cost	17.31
	Equipment design and malfunction	15.38
	Interpretation requires expertise	15.38
Flow Coupler	Damage to vessels	58.33
	Equipment design and malfunction	25.00
Implantable Doppler	Complex operative technique	43.68
	Lack of quantitative/objective values	12.65
	Cost	10.34