Determining the optimal site for imaging the microcirculation in neonates using sidestream dark – field imaging

Abstract

Sidestream dark field (SDF) spectral imaging has been used to take pictures of capillaries within the skin. The most common location to place the SDF is the mucosa area in the mouth. However, in neonates the sublingual area is not easily accessible, thus an optimal location on the skin should be found. This feasibility study aims to determine the optimal site, out of five body areas on the neonate from which to obtain image of capillary microcirculation. These preliminary results indicate that the chest wall can be considered as the optimal measurement location on the skin when using the SDF modality.