Roundtable Report: An Advanced Diagnostic Imaging Tool

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) technology was discussed in a roundtable report from a panel of key opinion leaders in the industry, who support the use of NIRS to enhance clinical decision-making and wound healing.

The panel, consisting of nine key opinion leaders and one moderator, was synonymous in recognizing NIRS imaging as an emerging significant advancement in wound care. Their report concluded that NIRS diagnostic imaging:

• Offers new diagnostic potential for clinicians and to improve patient outcomes

• Is an objective tool that can be used to support patient education on the importance of adherence to treatment plans

• Can be used at baseline, pre- and post-interventions and for patient monitoring and follow-up

• Is a valuable education tool for staff to demonstrate the efficacy of interventions and how to use objective data to support clinical reasoning

• Can enhance documentation through data and clinical images that help in illustrating medical necessity to payors

• Differs between devices and providers should compare options regarding data output and quality of images prior to implementing a device in their practice

The optimism about the future of NIRS technology is an exciting achievement for the wound care industry and NIRS technology. Thank you to everyone involved in the round table discussion on the use of NIRS.

Thomas Serena, William H. Tettelbach, MD, FACP, FIDSA, FUHM, MAPWCA, CWSP, Andrew Rader, Amy Couch, Naz Wahab, Misael Alonso, MD, FACP, CWSP, FAPWCA, Dan Kapp, Martha R Kelso, RN, CHWS, DAPWCA, HBOT, Martin Johnson and Marcus Gitterle MD.