3D imaging system to ‘revolutionise’ treatment for diabetics
Researchers from the University of Oxford have developed a 3D imaging camera which they claim could revolutionise the treatment of diabetic wounds.
Using two individual cameras and four high powered flash units in a light, mobile unit, the Eykona system builds a 3D image and exploits specially designed software to measure size, depth and skin tone at the sub-millimetre level.
The device, which is currently being used in a number of NHS Trusts, can reportedly be used without extensive, costly training, and is being offered as a more accurate, cheaper solution to other systems currently on the market.
"One of the risks of inaccurate measurement and treatment of diabetic wounds is amputation, with 50% of people who have a major amputations dying within two years," noted Dr James Paterson, one of the inventors of the system. "Through the use of Eykona, many of these amputations could be avoided through more precise, efficient and effective care resulting from accurate 3D measurement."
The Eykona system works by first creating a detailed 3D model of any wound or scar, from which measurements including distance, area, colour, width or volume can be made.
Using the Eykona rendering software, the 3D model can then be assessed from all angles and shared with other doctors and clinicians through server or cloud-based hosting.
The camera uses small, sterile 'targets' to set the focus and position of the camera, eliminating inconsistency between images.
"By replacing archaic, basic and expensive processes, Eykona is not just saving time and money, but lives," Dr Paterson added. "It means more measurements can be taken, in less time, by any number of healthcare professionals. They can then be shared with clinicians and specialists anywhere in the world if needed, improving the standard of care and reducing travel costs."
