Measuring leg ulcers using a laser displacement sensor

A non-contact method for the measurement of a skin ulcer's area and volume has been developed. A commercially available laser displacement sensor is scanned across the ulcer's surface to produce a displacement image. From this image the healthy normal skin's surface is reconstructed and the area and volume found. Results of measurements made with phantom ulcers show that the method has a precision and accuracy +/- 5% of the total size. This compares favourably with results from other non-contact methods that have been published. The method of measurement is simple and reliable. At present, the time taken to produce a displacement image is lengthy but this is due to a limitation in the instrumentation, rather that a failing of the technique. The result of a preliminary measurement made on a patient's leg ulcer is presented.