Laser speckle contrast analysis (LASCA): a new device in the diagnosis and monitoring of surgical treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa

INTRODUCTION: Laser speckle contrast analysis (LASCA) is a quite new and unique device which can find applications in multiple diagnostic approaches in dermatology and dermatosurgery. LASCA can be used in multiple approaches. We would like to make the world’s first presentation of LASCA usefulness in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) surgery based on a case series. AIM: To evaluate the usefulness of LASCA in the surgical treatment of HS. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In HS surgical treatment at the Centre for Burns Treatment in Siemianowice Śląskie, Poland in 2019–2022, we performed standard preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative speckle laser examinations to assess the vascular perfusion of the surgical sites. The device used was Laser Speckle Contrast Analysis (Perimed AG). This study included 18 patients treated surgically at the Centre for Burns Treatment in Siemianowice Śląskie with specific LASCA findings. RESULTS: As a result of the LASCA examination, we found 1) ischemia of the flap, and 2) local foci of HS, and we could also assess the healing process. CONCLUSIONS: LASCA is a great device with which we can evaluate wound healing after surgical procedures (STSG and skin local flaps). LASCA allows for early detection of post-operative complications like ischemia of the local skin flap.