[Application of infrared thermal imaging technology in the design of free anterolateral thigh perforator flap transplantation]

Abstract

Objective: To explore clinical effect of infrared thermal imaging technology for the treatment of free anterolateral thigh perforator flap transplantation.

Methods: From June 2014 to June 2018, 31 patients with skin defect at various degrees treated by free anterolateral thigh perforator flap transplantation, including 21 males and 10 females aged from 16 to 59 years old with an average age of(35.3±1.5) years old, the courses of disease ranged from 2 to 4 weeks with an average of (1.8±0.6) weeks. The number of perforating branch, the position of the perforating branch, the perforating branch vitality detected by Doppler blood stream detector and parameters of thermal imaging image in order to guide design of skin flap, and compared results with the data of perforator arteries observed during the operation.

Results: Totally 52 branches of perforating arteries were detected by Doppler blood stream detector during operation, and 38 perforator branches were confirmed in operation, the accuracy rate was 73.1%. Thirty-eight branches of perforating arteries were detected by infrared thermography during operation, and 35 branches of perforating branches were confirmed in operation, the accuracy rate was 92.1%; there were statistical difference. The most dynamic perforating pivot found by Doppler blood stream detector was confirmed by intraoperative diagnosis, with an accuracy rate of 80.6%. The most dynamic perforating pivot found by infrared thermography is confirmed by intraoperative diagnosis, with an accuracy rate of 100%; there were statistical difference. Thirty-one flaps were survived without vascular crisis occurred. All patients were followed up from 6 to 18 months with an average of(10.7±1.2) months. The flaps survived with soft texture and good blood circulation, the defect was not bloated, the color of skin flap was basically the same as that of the normal skin, and the limbs appearance and function recovered well.

Conclusions: Infrared infrared thermal imaging technology could be used as a new technology in localization of perforator artery in free anterolateral thigh perforator flap transplantation.

Keywords: Diagnostic imaging; Infrared rays; Perforator flap.