Background

Diabetic foot ulcers are among the most serious and costly complications of diabetes. The number of new onsets of diabetic foot ulcers treated in hospitals in Denmark is about 3,000/year. In 2009, the incidence of diabetic foot ulcers was 22,195. Several studies have shown that the size and depth of the wound are the two main reasons for the delay in wound healing. Therefore, wound measurement is an important component of monitoring diabetic wound healing. In the past, two-dimensional measurement methods were used for assessment of wound healing. This project uses a newly developed 3D optical camera that can measure the area and volume of the wound and also has the potential to assess the wound-healing process from within the entire wound.

Purpose/vision

The project aims to investigate whether volumetric measurements of diabetic foot ulcers and venous leg ulcers can be used to assess wound healing. In addition, attempts are made to elucidate the clinical variables associated with wound healing of diabetic foot ulcers.

A prospective cohort study is carried out entailing 100 patients newly referred to the University Centre for Wound Healing at Odense University Hospital with diabetic foot ulcers or venous leg ulcers.

Patients are monitored at the Centre until wound healing, transition to a chronic stage (not healed after 1 year) or amputation has been carried out. During the first visit the patient's data is recorded including diabetes type, diabetes duration, diabetes complications and other chronic diseases. An examination of the wound and measurements of the area and volume are performed using the 3D optical camera. The examination is repeated at regular intervals. The patient and wound data are assessed after one year, depending on the outcome of the wound healing.

What is the expected outcome of the project?

• 3D images of the wounds will provide precise structural goals that can elucidate the reason for lack of wound healing, and thereby contribute to a more specific wound care.

• The future vision is that the handheld 3D photo-optical camera can be used for telemedicine by wound care nurses in patients' own homes.

• It is expected that the 3D photo-optical camera can be used to evaluate the effects on wound healing of various wound treatment regimes that are limited by lack of evidence.