Precision of a photogrammetric method to perform 3D wound measurements compared to standard 2D photographic techniques in the horse.

This study explores the use of 3D imaging, based on principles of stereophotogrammetry, in the assessment and management of wounds in horses, compared to standard 2D photographic techniques. The results confirm that 3D measurements are significantly more precise and consistent than their 2D counterparts, suggesting their potential usefulness in monitoring and investigating equine wounds.

Methodology of the Study

• The research involved repeated imaging of four clinical wounds on horses that were healing naturally, also known as healing by second intention. Specialized photographic imaging equipment and processes were utilized.
• The variability in measurements due to imaging and 3D processing was compared with that of a standard 2D technique.
• Descriptive statistics together with a multivariate repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) were employed in the analysis of the data gathered.

Research Findings

• With the help of a custom-made imaging system, successful 3D analyses were performed.
• The area and circumference measurements recorded using both imaging modalities were shown to be significantly different.
• The variability amongst the 3D measurements taken by the same operator was found to be up to 2.8 times less than those of 2D results.
• The maximum discrepancy between repeated measurements was, on average, 5.8% of the mean for 3D and 17.3% of the mean for 2D assessments. This shows that 3D measurements are significantly more consistent.

Conclusion and Implications of the Study

• The study concludes that 3D wound measurements, performed using principles of stereophotogrammetry, are significantly more repeatable than those of a standard 2D photographic technique. This indicates that 3D imaging could be a useful tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of equine wounds.
• In a broader sense, this research highlights the importance of the equine granulation bed in wound healing. It demonstrates that, compared to 2D analyses, 3D monitoring of the wound bed allows for superior quantitative characterisation. This can aid both clinical practice and experimental investigations by offering potential new parameters.