To explore the feasibility and implications of infrared thermography (IRT) as a non-contact adjunct for monitoring peristomal skin complications and perfusion-related risks in intestinal stoma care, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes.
Key Findings:
IRT is feasible as a non-contact method for monitoring temperature patterns in intestinal stoma care.
Temperature-difference metrics and pattern-based interpretation were commonly used across studies.
Significant variability was noted in devices, acquisition conditions, and reported thermal metrics, which may affect the reliability of results.
Interpretation:
While IRT shows promise for enhancing stoma care through objective monitoring, there is insufficient stoma-specific validation and a need for standardized procedures to ensure its effective integration into clinical practice.
Limitations:
Lack of robust validation studies specific to intestinal stomas.
Heterogeneity in study designs and methodologies limits generalizability.
Need for larger sample sizes in future studies to strengthen findings.
Conclusion:
Future studies should focus on standardizing IRT protocols, assessing its clinical value in real-world stoma care pathways, and identifying specific areas where IRT can add the most value.
