OP046 USE OF A BACTERIAL FLUORESCENCE IMAGING DEVICE FOR BACTERIAL DETECTION AND GUIDANCE OF WOUND DEBRIDEMENT.

Aim: This quantitative non-comparative, prospective study investigated the clinical utility of using fluorescence imaging to assess bacterial burden and guide subsequent wound debridement. Method: Twenty-six participants with 27 wounds of varying aetiologies were observed twice weekly for two weeks. Wounds were treated with cleansing, repeated guided sharp debridement, and topical cadexomer iodine. Wound bacterial burden (fluorescence imaging), pH (pH indicator strips), temperature (infrared camera), and size (ruler method) was monitored at each visit. Results / Discussion: At the study baseline, 78% (n=21) of the participants had bacteria loads of clinical concern in their wounds; following two weeks of inflammation management this decreased to 26% (n=7). The wound size (range: 70mm2 to 455mm²) reduced by 39% (mean difference 383mm², 95% CI: -10.45 to 87.05; p=0.12), equating to a 39% reduction. The findings indicate that an increased rise in pH and temperature from the previous pattern is indicative of bacterial burden and should raise concerns with the clinician. Conclusion: This feasibility study showed that fluorescence imaging accurately visualizes bacterial burden and guides debridement. Non-invasive techniques, such fluorescence imaging, pH, and temperature measurement allow changes in wound status to be monitored and hence can facilitate early detection of potential problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]