Use of an Android application "clinometer" for measurement of head down tilt given during subarachnoid block

Abstract

Context: Head down tilt is given to patients after sub arachnoid block for adjustment of height of block. However, the amount of tilt given is subjective and cannot be documented.

Aims: We used an android application named "clinometer" to measure exact degree of tilt given by anesthesiologists as their routine practice.

Settings and design: This observational study, at a medical college hospital, was done in 130 patients given sub arachnoid block for lower abdominal surgeries.

Materials and methods: We observed and documented vital data of patients and measured tilt given by application "clinometer."

Results: We observed that the application was easy to use and measured tilt each time. The result obtained can be documented, digitally saved and transferred. In 130 patients studied, we observed incidence of degree of tilt as follows: 6-8° tilt in 38 patients (29.23%), 8-10 in 36 patients (27.69%), 10-12 in 30 patients (23.08%), 12-14 in 12 patients (9.23%) and 14-16° tilt in 14 patients (10.77%). Use of application was received with enthusiasm by practicing anesthesiologists. Various possible uses of this application are discussed.

Keywords: Android application; clinometer; smartphone; subarachnoid block; tilt.

Figures

Figure 1

Screen shot of interface of clinometer application

Figure 2

Screenshot of clinometer reading with registration number as caption

Figure 3

Table showing tilt measured in patients

Figure 4

Screenshot of clinometer used as spirit level in horizontal direction