Use of Infrared Thermometry to Observe Temperature Variation Associated with the Healing Process in Wounds and Ulcers: TIHUAP Cohort Study Protocol

We are interested in observing how temperature differences between the wound bed and perilesional skin are related to the healing process in primary care patients with wounds. Multisite prospective cohort study with one-year follow-up in the Metropolitan North area of Barcelona. Recruitment of patients over 18 years with an open wound will take place from January 2023 to September 2023. Temperature checks will be conducted on a weekly basis at control visits and wound care. The following variables will be measured: Percentage reduction of wound area over time, thermal index, the Kundin Wound Gauge, and the Resvech 2.0 Scale. The temperature will be measured weekly using a handheld thermometer and mesh grid to frame the temperature points. The healing trajectory will also be monitored on a monthly basis via photographic imaging, the Resvech Scale, calculation of wound size, percentage reduction of wound area over time, and thermal index for one year of follow-up or until the wound is cured. This study may represent a turning point for its introduction into primary care. Early diagnosis of wound complications would facilitate treatment decision-making for healthcare professionals, thus improving the management of resources related to chronic wounds.

Automated summary

We aim to investigate the relationship between temperature differences between the wound bed and perilesional skin and the healing process in primary care patients with wounds. This study is a multisite prospective cohort study with one-year follow-up, conducted from January 2023 to September 2023 in the Metropolitan North area of Barcelona. Variables such as percentage reduction of wound area over time, thermal index, Kundin Wound Gauge, and Resvech 2.0 Scale will be measured. Weekly temperature checks will be done using a handheld thermometer and mesh grid. Healing trajectory will be monitored through photographic imaging, the Resvech Scale, calculation of wound size, percentage reduction of wound area over time, and thermal index for one year or until the wound is cured. This study has the potential to improve the management of chronic wounds in primary care by facilitating early diagnosis of wound complications.