FLIR One and assessment of epidural block

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  Assessment of epidural/spinal/peripheral nerve block using a smartphone attached thermal imaging camera (FLIR ONE) vs. standard patient skin temperature detection in theatre setting

• IRAS ID

  211869

• Contact name

  Mekhola Hoff

• Contact email

  Mekhola.Hoff@meht.nhs.uk

• Sponsor organisation

  Dr

• Duration of Study in the UK

  0 years, 4 months, 17 days

• Research summary

  This is a very simple research study looking at how effective a smartphone attached thermal imaging camera (FLIR-ONE; pictured above) is at assessing the level of epidural/spinal/peripheral nerve block versus skin temperature sensation differentiation using cold spray that we routinely use at Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford.

  Assessment of epidural/spinal /peripheral nerve block using cold spray can be uncomfortable for the patient. The FLIR-ONE camera does not require patient contact and could be a more patient-acceptable alternative. It additionally allows detection of the level of block when the patient is unable to communicate (for example, adults under general anaesthesia or children). At a price of ~£100 the FLIR-ONE camera is relatively cheap, and if proven to be an effective clinical tool could be used more extensively within the NHS for assessing epidural/spinal/peripheral nerve blocks.

• REC name

  South West - Frenchay Research Ethics Committee

• REC reference

  16/SW/0206

• Date of REC Opinion

  19 Aug 2016

• REC opinion

  Further Information Favourable Opinion