Infrared thermal imaging: a potential tool used in open colorectal surgery

Aim of this pilot study was to assess blood perfusion of bowel in resection lines by means of the infrared thermal imaging in order to choose the best place for anastomosis. The paper brings a first experience with infrared thermal imaging used in colorectal surgery operation from initial observation of the patient with T3 adenomatous carcinoma with no lymph node metastasis. The obtained infrared images show a clear boundary between parts of the intestine with blood perfusion and without it. The proposed position of resection of colon identified by infrared camera is in accordance with routinely designated position. Infrared thermal imaging seems to be a complimentary diagnostic method to see the perfusion in colorectal surgery.