Transcutaneous oxygen tension measurement over the sacrum on various anti-decubitus mattresses

Transcutaneous oxygen tension (tcPO2) was measured over the sacrum of 12 healthy, normal-weight volunteers positioned on five different mattresses. TcPO2 was lower (p less than 0.01) in those on a standard hospital mattress (median 0 mmHg), than in those on a sheep skin (median 22 mmHg), water mattress (median 33.5 mmHg), Spenco mattress (median 52.5 mmHg) or ripple air mattress (median 0/62 mmHg). The tcPO2 for the Spenco mattress was higher (p less than 0.01) than for sheep skin and for the water mattress. No significant difference was found in tcPO2 for the latter two named above. TcPO2 for the ripple air mattress alternated between 0, when inflated under the oxygen sensor, to about full oxygenation, when deflated. We believe that the ripple air mattress theoretically is the best mattress to prevent decubitus ulcers, but due to frequent mechanical failure of pump or mattress, the Spenco mattress is perhaps the best for practical use. Clinical comparative studies will be necessary to confirm that.