Burn-depth estimation using thermal excitation and imaging

Fred M. Dickey; Scott C. Holswade; Mark L. Yee

doi:10.1117/12.351533

9 July 1999 Burn-depth estimation using thermal excitation and imaging

Fred M. Dickey, Scott C. Holswade, Mark L. Yee

Proceedings Volume 3595, Biomedical Diagnostic, Guidance, and Surgical-Assist Systems; (1999) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.351533
Event: BiOS '99 International Biomedical Optics Symposium, 1999, San Jose, CA, United States

Abstract

Accurate estimation of the depth of partial-thickness burns and the early prediction of a need for surgical intervention are difficult. A non-invasive technique utilizing the difference in thermal relaxation time between burned and normal skin may be useful in this regard. In practice, a thermal camera would record the skin's response to heating or cooling by a small amount--roughly 5 degree(s) Celsius for a short duration. The thermal stimulus would be provided by a heat lamp, hot or cold air, or other means. Processing of the thermal transients would reveal areas that returned to equilibrium at different rates, which should correspond to different burn depths. In deeper thickness burns, the outside layer of skin is further removed from the constant- temperature region maintained through blood flow. Deeper thickness areas should thus return to equilibrium more slowly than other areas. Since the technique only records changes in the skin's temperature, it is not sensitive to room temperature, the burn's location, or the state of the patient. Preliminary results are presented for analysis of a simulated burn, formed by applying a patch of biosynthetic wound dressing on top of normal skin tissue.

Citation Download Citation

Fred M. Dickey, Scott C. Holswade, and Mark L. Yee "Burn-depth estimation using thermal excitation and imaging", Proc. SPIE 3595, Biomedical Diagnostic, Guidance, and Surgical-Assist Systems, (9 July 1999); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.351533

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available