Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Shows Promise in Equitable Early Detection of Deep Tissue Injuries
A prospective study presented by researchers from Heritage Wound Care in Montclair, NJ, investigated the use of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) as a diagnostic tool for the early detection of deep tissue injuries (DTIs) and pressure injuries (PIs), with a particular focus on improving diagnostic equity across skin tones. Conducted across 15 long-term care facilities, the study enrolled 17 patients with a total of 20 confirmed DTIs/PIs. Participants represented the full spectrum of Fitzpatrick skin types I through V, and the wounds evaluated included injuries to the heel, sacrum, hip, medial foot, and thigh.
The research team used the FDA 501(k)-cleared handheld MIMOSA Pro device to capture 3 types of images for each participant: standard visual light images, thermal images, and oximetry images that measure tissue oxygenation. A region of interest (ROI), typically the area of discoloration or injury, was identified on each participant, and oxygenation and temperature values were compared with those of surrounding healthy tissue to determine the degree of compromise.1
The study findings emphasize the potential of NIRS to fill a critical gap in wound care assessment, particularly for patients with darker skin tones.
