Non-invasive Optical Methods to Assess Tissue Perfusion in Vascular Patients - A Scoping Review

Objective: The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the current evidence of non-invasive optical tissue perfusion assessment modalities available and their uses. We also aimed to collate their mechanism of action, the advantages, and disadvantages of all

Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted via Embase and Medline (via the Ovid interface), Pubmed and Google Scholar. The articles were reviewed by two independent reviewers and discussed. Findings were collated for each method of tissue perfusion.

Results:

34 studies were included in the final review. The modalities discussed included Photoplethysmography, Spatial Frequency Domain Imaging (SFDI), Hyperspectral Imaging, Laser Doppler, Laser Speckle Flowgraphy, Near infra-red spectroscopy, Thermography and Indocyanine Green.



Conclusions:

Several new modalities are available for non-invasive monitoring of tissue perfusion which show promise. Their use and applicability in diabetic foot ulcers is an area of ongoing research.