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3D device linked to accurate wound assessment among nonexpert clinicians
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Nonexpert clinicians obtained similar wound measurements as wound care experts using a novel imaging system, according to a poster presented at the 70th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Researchers from Pisa, Italy, suggested that physical techniques to assess and manage skin and wounds are new to most clinicians because the traditional approach using clinical inspection is the standard. This inspection is conducted using computerized portable technologies that are applied to the ulcer.
The current research is an investigation into a 3D handheld imaging and modeling system that monitors the qualitative and quantitative evolution of wounds using a technological device. The device will produce an objective evaluation of wound status that allows the wound to be monitored using measurable attributes, including 2D and 3D information. The researchers noted the critical role wound volume plays in evaluating wound closure.
A digital camera and structured lighting comprise the device. The lighting is three laser beams that automatically correct for the location of the camera, the image scale and the skin curvature.
The final analysis included 65 ulcers between stages 3 and 4. Four independent observers analyzed the wounds weekly for 6 weeks. There were two wound care expert doctors and two nonexpert doctors.
Evaluable measures included wound surface area, length, width, average depth and volume.
Interobserver measurement reliability was determined using the Student t test.
Results indicated no statistical differences between expert and nonexpert observer measurements at any study time point. Clinicians reported the device to be easy and quick to operate.
The researchers concluded that the system may minimize differences in wound assessment between expert and nonexpert observers.
For more information:
Dini V. Abstract #5475. Presented at: The 70th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology. March 16-20, 2012. San Diego, Calif.