Preliminary demonstration using localized skin temperature elevation as observed with thermal imaging as an indicator of fat-specific absorption during focused-field radiofrequency therapy.

BACKGROUND This study incorporates concurrent thermal camera imaging as a means of both safely extending the length of each treatment session within skin surface temperature tolerances and to demonstrate not only the homogeneous nature of skin surface temperature heating but the distribution of that heating pattern as a reflection of localization of subcutaneous fat distribution. METHODS Five subjects were selected because of a desire to reduce abdomen and flank fullness. Full treatment field thermal camera imaging was captured at 15 minute intervals, specifically at 15, 30, and 45 minutes into active treatment with the purpose of monitoring skin temperature and avoiding any patterns of skin temperature excess. RESULTS Peak areas of heating corresponded anatomically to the patients' areas of greatest fat excess ie, visible "pinchable" fat. CONCLUSION Preliminary observation of high-resolution thermal camera imaging used concurrently with focused field RF therapy show peak skin heating patterns overlying the areas of greatest fat excess.