Aims. The introduction of laser Doppler (LD) techniques to assess burn depth has revolutionized the treatment of burns of\nindeterminate depth. This paper will systematically review studies related to these two techniques and trace their evolution. At\nthe same time we hope to highlight current controversies and areas where further research is necessary with regard to LD imaging\n(LDI) techniques. Methods. A systematic search for relevant literature was carried out on PubMed,Medline, EMBASE, and Google\nScholar.Key search terms included the following: ââ?¬Å?LaserDoppler imaging,ââ?¬Â ââ?¬Å?laserDoppler flow,ââ?¬Â and ââ?¬Å?burn depth.ââ?¬Â Results. A totalof\n53 studies were identified. Twenty-six studies which met the inclusion/exclusion criteria were included in the review. Conclusions.\nThe numerous advantages of LDI over those of LD flowmetry have resulted in the former technique superseding the latter one.\nDespite the presence of alternative burn depth assessment techniques, LDI remains the most favoured.Various newer LDI machines\nwith increasingly sophisticated methods of assessing burn depth have been introduced throughout the years.However, factors such\nas cost effectiveness, scanning of topographically inconsistent areas of the body, and skewing of results due to tattoos, peripheral\nvascular disease, and anaemia continue to be sighted as obstacles to LDI which require further research.
Loading....