Using High Resolution Infrared Thermography to Detect Bone, Joint, and Soft Tissue Infections in Children up to 15 Years

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are exploring the use of High Resolution Infrared Thermographic Imaging HRTI to help detect infections in bones, joints, and soft tissues in children. This pilot study aims to determine whether HRTI, which captures temperature patterns using a sensitive thermal camera, can assist in identifying musculoskeletal infections more quickly and cost-effectively. Infections like osteomyelitis and septic arthritis can cause serious complications in children, and current imaging methods like MRI are costly and require sedation. Participants with suspected bone, joint, or soft tissue infections will be split into two groups based on their condition. Those with septic arthritis will have thermal images taken during surgery under general anesthesia, while those with non-emergency infections will have imaging done just before an MRI scan. The study uses a 10-second thermal video to dynamically monitor the affected area, and this data will be processed and analyzed to evaluate the presence of infection. During the study, participants will have their thermal profiles recorded and compared between infected and unaffected areas. Blood tests including ESR, CRP, and white blood cell count will be collected on admission. Participation will not affect the routine medical care they receive. The study involves 30 children up to 15 years old and includes monitoring of infection markers to assess the diagnostic value of HRTI. The total study duration lasts from admission until these assessments are completed.

Infrared Thermography for Diagnosis of Musculoskeletal Infections