Abstract
BACKGROUND: Hyperspectral imaging enables noninvasive evaluation of the microcirculation, which affects wound healing. In patients with Dupuytren's disease the microcirculation should be improved in order to achieve good clinical results and reduce the risk of recurrence. The aim of the study was to evaluate the microcirculatory effectiveness of postoperative hand therapy in patients with Dupuytren's disease after partial fasciectomy. METHODS: In an inpatient hospital setting 35 patients with Dupuytren's disease were investigated before and after partial fasciectomy. Standardized hand therapy was performed after surgery. Its effects on superficial and deep oxygenation, tissue hemoglobin index and tissue water index were assessed using hyperspectral imaging at 3 regions of interest (ROI) within the first 2 postoperative days. For image evaluation, three ROIs were placed manually within the palm, the fingertip of the affected digit (fourth or fifth digit) and a fingertip of a control digit (unaffected, second digit of the same hand) using the vendor's software (Tivita(TM) Tissue Suite, Diaspective Vision, Germany). RESULTS: Superficial oxygenation increased 1 day after surgery and after hand therapy. The tissue water index decreased on the second postoperative day. CONCLUSION: Hyperspectral Imaging demonstrates that postoperative hand therapy effectively improves perfusion and oxygenation in the hands of patients with Dupuytren's disease and additionally reduces edema.