Assessment of Near Infrared Spectroscopy as a Diagnostic Tool in Acute Compartment Syndrome
Summary
The purpose of this study is to define the reliability and accuracy of Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) in the detection of intra-compartmental tissue perfusion in injured and noninjured extremities over time. We hypothesize that this technology, combined with vital signs, intracompartmental pressures and clinical examinations, will be useful in diagnosing acute compartment syndrome (ACS), monitoring patients at risk for ACS, and evaluating the adequacy of fasciotomy in patients treated for ACS.
Description
Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is associated with lower leg trauma in up to 20% of high energy injuries. ACS occurs when the pressure due to swelling exceeds the perfusion pressure thereby cutting off blood flow to the leg. If untreated, the results can be catastrophic with an insensate, contracted leg. Moreover, there is a high risk of subsequent infection and even amputation. The treatment for ACS, a four compartment fasciotomy, is aimed at releasing the pressure through two incisions from roughly the knee to the ankle. Often due to wound expansion, the incisions require multiple debridements and skin grafting to close. With fasciotomies, fractures are converted from closed to open injuries. When left open for many days, the risk of infection and complications such as nonunion increase significantly.
The only accepted objective method for diagnosis of ACS is to measure the pressure inside the leg compartments by using a large gauge needle hooked to a pressure monitor. However, these readings can be erroneous if not performed correctly. As such, ACS continues to be a clinical diagnosis which is made based on the surgeon's experience and their interpretation of the character of the injury (high-energy, motorcycle crash, vs. low-energy, a twisted ankle). Clinicians are left to attempt to interpret physical exam findings and readings from pressure monitors. Most importantly ACS is not an event, but a process that can manifest at multiple points after injury. The most accurate and effective method for diagnosing and appropriately treating ACS is serial examination over a course of hours to days.
With this study, we hope to evaluate the NIRS device, which is non-invasive, as diagnostic tool in the evaluation of acute compartment syndrome. We plan to evaluate all patients by the gold standard in diagnosing acute compartment syndrome while simultaneously evaluating the patient with the NIRS device. This will allow us to determine if the NIRS device can accurately and reliably predict the development of acute compartment syndrome in a non-invasive, longitudinal manner.
"Access to a precise, reliable, and noninvasive method for early diagnosis of ACS would be a landmark achievement in orthopaedic and emergency medicine."
Study Design
Observational Model: Cohort, Time Perspective: Prospective
Conditions
Compartment Syndrome
Intervention
near-infrared spectroscopy
Location
Carolinas Medical Center
Charlotte
North Carolina
United States
28232
Status
Recruiting
Source
J&M Shuler
Results (where available)
Links
- Source: http://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT01077934
- Information obtained from ClinicalTrials.gov on July 15, 2010
Medical and Biotech [MESH] Definitions
Spectroscopy, Near-infrared
A noninvasive technique that uses the differential absorption properties of hemoglobin and myoglobin to evaluate tissue oxygenation and indirectly can measure regional hemodynamics and blood flow. Near-infrared light (NIR) can propagate through tissues and at particular wavelengths is differentially absorbed by oxygenated vs. deoxygenated forms of hemoglobin and myoglobin. Illumination of intact tissue with NIR allows qualitative assessment of changes in the tissue concentration of these molecules. The analysis is also used to determine body composition.
Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared
A spectroscopic technique in which a range of wavelengths is presented simultaneously with an interferometer and the spectrum is mathematically derived from the pattern thus obtained.
Thermography
Measurement of the regional temperature of the body or an organ by infrared sensing devices, based on self-emanating infrared radiation.
Anterior Compartment Syndrome
Rapid swelling, increased tension, pain, and ischemic necrosis of the muscles of the anterior tibial compartment of the leg, often following excessive PHYSICAL EXERTION.
Infrared Rays
That portion of the electromagnetic spectrum usually sensed as heat. Infrared wavelengths are longer than those of visible light, extending into the microwave frequencies. They are used therapeutically as heat, and also to warm food in restaurants.
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