Classic Versus Scarpa-sparing abdominoplasty: An infrared thermographic comparative analysis

Background: Scarpa fascia preservation during abdominoplasty has been shown to have several clinical advantages. The mechanisms behind its efficiency have been the subject of several studies. Three theories have been proposed, relating to mechanical factors, lym phatic preservation, and improved vascularization. This study aimed to further investigate the possible vascular impact of Scarpa fascia preservation by using a thermographic analysis. Methods: A single-center prospective study was conducted, involving 12 female patients randomly and equally assigned to one of two surgical procedures: classic (Group A) and Scarpa- sparing abdominoplasty (Group B). Dynamic thermography was applied before and after surgery (one and six months), and two regions of interest (ROIs) were considered. The latter had the same location on every sample, and corresponded to areas where different surgical planes had been used. Static thermography was applied intraoperatively, and four ROIs were considered, located over Scarpa and over the deep fascia. The respective thermal data were analyzed. Results: The general characteristics of both groups were identical. Preoperative thermography demonstrated no differences between groups. Intraoperative higher thermal gradients be- tween lateral and medial ROIs were observed in Group B (P = 0.037, right side). Dynamic