Real World Experience (RWE) Using Near Infrared (NIR) Spectroscopy Analysis of 140 Encounters on Medicare Beneficiaries in Post-Acute Care

Introduction: Wound Care Plus, LLC (WCP) is a mobile wound care advanced practice provider dedicated to advancing wound care for underserved patients across various care settings. Our commitment extends to overcoming challenges related to diagnostic access. Patients often face delays in scheduling diagnostic tests, transportation obstacles, and concerns about invasive procedures. Additionally, the wound population may present a mixture of arterial and venous insufficiencies. Wound Care Plus, LLC has integrated “trunk-to-bed” technology into our bedside diagnostics for improved patient care to address these issues.Methods:Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was employed to assess tissue oxygen saturation and perfusion. Wound Care Plus (WCP) evaluated how NIRS enhanced or changed treatment planning for 140 Medicare beneficiaries in the Post-Acute Care setting.Results:By utilizing NIRS, WCP was able to identify the flowing trends: Decreased need for vascular referrals to 0.71%, validating adequate perfusion and oxygenation. 22.14% of patients to evaluate medical necessity or adequacy of debridement. 15% of patients had a change in care plans. 90.7% evaluate trends in tissue evaluating circulation, perfusion, and oxygenation compared to the initial visit, resulting in identifying sinus tracts and undermining. 99.29% changes in treatment. 85% had adequate perfusion to debride. Only 7% needed additional vascular studies or intervention. 13.5% went from palliative care to healable. Discussion: This analysis underscores the efficacy of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) as a diagnostic tool for validating sufficient blood flow, assessing perfusion, and evaluating tissue oxygenation. NIRS supports effective debridement and aids in assessing treatment effectiveness and care plans. By incorporating NIRS, healthcare providers can enhance patient care while mitigating healthcare costs and overcoming barriers to access.References:Wound Care Plus, LLC database