[Thermometric investigations about the efficacy of beta-escin to reduce postoperative edema (author's transl)].

Beta-escin is highly effective in reducing postoperative edemas and swellings. It was tried to demonstrate the effect of beta-escin using the thermometry. The temperature of soft tissues and bones can be measured with the help of the thermometry, in this way the circulation of the skin can be determined. In 65 test persons so-called normal thermograms were established, using the infraredthermometer KT 41, which makes registrations without touching the skin. In 53 patients the temperature of the skin was checked after surgery of the hand. 27 patients received beta-escin (Reparil); 26 patients without medication served as controls. In every case the temperature of the operated hand was compared to the other hand. Among the patients, who received escin, the temperature of the operated hand rose for two days following surgery; afterwards it fell quickly. Among the controls the skin-temperature rose up to the 4. day after surgery and decreased slowly. These results demonstrate clearly that after using beta-escin there is a quick reduction of postoperative inflammation and edema.