Can we use commercially available less expensive infrared thermometers to measure skin surface temperature associated with deep and surrounding wound infection?.

Validation of Commercially Available Infrared Thermometers for Measuring Skin Surface Temperature Associated with Deep and Surrounding Wound Infection

Mufti, Asfandyar BMSc; Coutts, Patricia RN; Sibbald, R. Gary BSc, MD, MEd, FRCPC(Med)(Derm), MACP, FAAD, MAPWCA, DSc(Hons)Advances in Skin & Wound Care:January 2015 - Volume 28 - Issue 1 - p 11-16

doi: 10.1097/01.ASW.0000459039.81701.b2

Features: Original Investigation

At present time there are several shuttle signs which help us identify wound infection( i,e friable spongy granulation tissue, delayed wound healing, Persistent drainage and evidence of wound pain.) Authors of this article suggest that using less expensive industrial grade non contact infrared thermometers might be useful along with other signs may be associated with deep and surrounding wound infections. This could be very helpful clinically in wound care practice if validated further by more evidence based data.