[Hyperspectral imaging for postoperative flap monitoring of pedicled flaps]. / Hyperspektralimaging zum postoperativen Lappenmonitoring von lokoregionären Lappenplastiken.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Since pedicle flaps were first described by the Indian physician Sushruta Samhita in the 6th century B. C., they have become an integral part of reconstructive surgery. As more and more research has been conducted into the underlying physical principles, flap monitoring has developed steadily in the last few decades. Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI) is a new quantitative measuring method for assessing the perfusion of the underlying tissue. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate HSI as a monitoring method for pedicle flaps. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In 16 patients who had undergone reconstructive surgery, oxygen saturation, haemoglobin and water concentration of the locoregional flap, necrotic flap areas as well as intact skin were measured on postoperative days 1 to 7. Subsequently, the data were statistically described and graphically illustrated. RESULTS: HSI revealed increased haemoglobin concentration and decreased oxygen and water concentration in necrotic flap areas compared with the monitor island and healthy skin. The distribution of the values collected from the vital skin areas and the monitor island was almost identical. CONCLUSION: HSI allows for safe, immediate, non-contact measurement of tissue perfusion of transferred tissue areas in patients after pedicle flap surgery. The use of HSI may improve postoperative flap monitoring.