Multimodal Imaging of Capillary Malformations
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Multimodal Imaging of Capillary Malformations for Wavelength-Targeted Laser Treatment
IRAS ID
220234
Contact name
Megan Anderson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Research and Development Office
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
NA, NA
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 13 days
Research summary
Capillary malformations can have a significant impact on psychological and social wellbeing. Patients with capillary malformations are currently offered LASER treatment using parameters from published evidence, ‘safe settings’ recommended by manufacturers, or parameters known to be effective in the operator’s personal experience. Haemoglobin in the abnormal surface vessels absorbs the LASER energy, destroying the vessels and making the malformation paler and less noticeable. Treatment results are variable and it has been shown that the central face and distal limbs respond less well, even with multiple treatments. Several LASERs are available to treat capillary malformations, and the choice of LASER and setting is most often determined by user training, experience and response to test patches. The use of multimodal imaging to build a picture of the characteristics of responsive lesions may enable clinicians to tailor treatment more accurately.
This project proposes the use of multimodal imaging to correlate lesion characteristics with anatomical area and responsiveness to treatment. High frequency ultrasound imaging will enable measurement of the depth and total thickness of malformations. Transcutaneous microscopy enables direct observation of vessel width within the malformation. LASER Doppler and the SPY scanner with indocyanine green injection facilitate measurement of variations in skin perfusion and flow, which may lead to better understanding of non-responsive areas. Reflectance spectrophotometry may allow this data to be correlated with colour of the lesion. Through more detailed characterization of capillary malformations, and assessment of the relationship of depth to malformation, vessel depth, width and flow, introducing tourniquets and topical agents, clinicians should be better able to select appropriate LASERs and settings for treatment. With more accurate assessment of malformations, counselling on effectiveness and duration of treatment will be more closely tailored to individual patients.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 4
REC reference
18/WS/0185
Date of REC Opinion
9 Nov 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion