Burns
The effects of heat can quickly result in burns due to the poor heat conductivity of skin. Even temperatures as low as 50 to 60 degrees Celsius can cause tissue damage.
The quick and precise diagnosis, which is the prerequisite for any immediately following treatment, is therefore highly important for burn victims. Previously used visual diagnoses by an experienced plastic surgeon are estimated at an accuracy of approx. 50% – the rate of incorrect assessments at the expense of the patient is accordingly high.
The use of the VivaScope 1500 and the VivaScope 3000 makes it possible to qualitatively and quantitatively distinguish between superficial burns (second degree) and severe wounds on the verge of third degree burns and therefore requiring immediate medical treatment. The pain free, non-invasive method does not stress patients additionally. A differentiated therapy option can follow directly upon the examination.
[1] Hlava P, Moserova J, Konigova R: “Validity of clinical assessment of the depth of a thermal injury.” Acta chirurgiae plasticae. 1983; 25: 202-208.
[2] Altintas MA, Altintas AA, Guggenheim M et al.: “Differentiation of superficial-partial vs. deep-partial thickness burn injuries in vivo by confocal-laser-scanning microscopy.” Burns. 2008; DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2008.05.003.