{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Digital Volumetric Measurements Based on 3D Scans of the Lower Limb: A Valid and Reproducible Method for Evaluation in Lymphedema Therapy.
{Author}: Schiltz D;Diesch ST;Kiermeier N;Eibl D;Felmerer G;Schreml S;Biermann N;Prantl L;Taeger CD;
{Journal}: Ann Vasc Surg
{Volume}: 105
{Issue}: 0
{Year}: 2024 Aug 3
{Factor}: 1.607
{DOI}: 10.1016/j.avsg.2024.01.011
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>Exact quantification of volumetric changes of the extremities is difficult and often error-prone. The aim of this study was to establish a standardized method based on 3-dimensional (3D) scans. Furthermore, this study tests the method in terms of reproducibility and evaluates volume changes after surgical therapy in patients suffering from lymphedema on the lower extremity.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>3D scans of the lower limb were performed with a mobile 3D scanner; "repeatability" and "interobserver reliability" of digital volumetry were tested. Furthermore, the method was applied on 31 patients suffering from chronic lymphedema.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Calculations of repeatability of the volume based on 20 3D scans of the same lower leg showed a mean volume of 2.488 ± 0.011 liters (range: 2.470-2.510). The mean volume of the different examiners did not differ significantly (F(2,18) = 1.579, P = 0.233). The paired t-test showed a significant mean volume decrease of 375 mL (95% confidence interval = 245/505 mL) between pretreatment and post-treatment (t (30) = 5.892, P < 0.001).<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>3D volumetry is a noninvasive, easy, and quick method to assess volume changes of the lower leg. Other than the low costs, it is reproducible and precise and therefore ideal for evolution of therapy in lymphedema.