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Case Series/Study
In recent years, the rising populations in rural and outlier areas have faced challenges in getting access to healthcare 1. This is especially true for patients dealing with chronic and slow-healing wounds. The study explores how mobile Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) imaging technology can potentially transform evidence-based wound care. By highlighting data-driven methods for wound care, the study points out the possibility of saving costs and improving workflow. Additionally, it highlights the role of NIRS in supporting advanced clinical interventions, contributing to the improvement and expansion of supporting documentation for the use of advanced modalities.
Methods:
Employing an FDA-cleared handheld mobile NIRS imaging device with thermal imaging capabilities* that measured temperature and tissue oximetry (StO2), this study is presenting four cases to exemplify the added value of NIRS imaging in documenting improvements and evaluating the clinical significance of interventions. The cases presented here involve patients facing "limited access to care," encompassing those residing in rural and outlier areas, as well as individuals dealing with transportation or other logistical barriers hindering access to top-tier treatment. The discussion explores the progression of improvement and the clinical significance of interventions, highlighting the pivotal role of NIRS imaging in documenting and justifying advanced wound care. The study emphasizes the potential for cost-savings and improved workflow efficiencies for healthcare staff by employing data-driven techniques. Furthermore, the discussion delves into the contribution of NIRS imaging to establishing a robust mobile service line for diagnostics and enhancing screening capabilities, particularly in the realm of digital wound management.
Results: The results highlight the integration of advanced modalities in wound management, showcasing the adaptability of NIRS technology in both mobile in-home and facility wound care settings. NIRS proves promising in justifying advanced technologies through data-driven analysis.
Discussion: