Thermal Challenges in Dynamic Infrared Thermography used for Perforator Mapping.

Cold challenges were overall superior to no challenge and warm challenges; however, this conclusion is limited by the small participant size, the possibility of detection bias, and poor methodology detailing. Airflow cooling - specifically, using a desktop fan to blow air for two minutes - was noted to likely cause the least discomfort due to a low cooling capacity yet simultaneously maintain effectiveness and allow for a uniform cooling application. Warm challenges showed less conclusive results and were restricted by lack of studies. This topic would benefit from larger scale studies that compare multiple approaches whilst using standardized equipment to eliminate confounding factors.