The Assessment of the Vascular Risk for Facial Procedures using Thermal Scanning Imaging and Doppler Ultrasonography

Abstract

Introduction: Surgical and non-surgical facial procedures have gained immense popularity thanks to their aesthetic benefits. Understanding the vascularization of the face and assessing potential risks is crucial to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the utility of thermal scanning and Doppler ultrasonography in evaluating the vascular risk for facial procedures. Material and Methods: A cohort of 60 patients were included in this prospective study. Preoperative thermal scanning and Doppler ultrasonography were performed in order to visualize the facial vasculature and identify potential areas of risk. Results: For 30 patients, we performed preprocedural Doppler ultrasound imaging and thermal scanning at the injection site. Only 6.66% of them suffered vascular complications, whilst 23.33% among those who didn’t undergo ultrasound and thermoscanning suffered vascular injuries. The combined use of these tools proved to be valuable in assessing the vascular risk for facial procedures. The findings emphasize the importance of preoperative assessment to identify patients at risk for vascular complications. Conclusions: Thermal scanning and Doppler ultrasonography offer a comprehensive approach to assessing the vascular risk for facial procedures. By ensuring the identification of abnormal vascular patterns and altered blood flow dynamics, these techniques enhance patient safety and procedure planning.