Hyperspectral imaging demonstrates microcirculatory effects of postoperative exercise therapy in Dupuytren's disease

Abstract

Dupuytren's disease (DD) is a common connective tissue disorder of the hand. To prevent recurrence of contractures, patients usually receive early postoperative ergotherapy (ET). However, it is yet unknown how this measure impacts on local blood flow and hence on the occurrence or prevention of postoperative complications. Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) allows for a quantitative evaluation of tissue perfusion by measuring oxygen saturation and tissue water content. The aim of this work was to evaluate the microcirculatory effects of early ET after partial fasciectomy in DD using HSI for optimised treatment and prevention. In five patients, the oxygen saturation and tissue water content of the hand were measured before and 20 min after exercise therapy on the first two postoperative days using HSI. HSI demonstrated improved tissue perfusion in terms of quantity and quality following ET in all patients. After ET, all patients showed a relative increase in oxygen saturation of up to 20 % and a reduction in tissue water of up to 17 %. HIS allows for a fast and non-invasive evaluation of increased oxygen supply and decreased tissue water content in the surgical site after partial fasciectomy in DD following postoperative exercise therapy. This may improve wound healing and decrease the rate of recurrence in DD.