Measuring tissue interface pressures of two support surfaces used in the operating room

Area of Science:

• Surgical patient care
• Medical device evaluation
• Pressure injury prevention

Background:

• Patients under anesthesia during surgery are immobile, increasing pressure injury risk.
• Vascular surgery patients face a particularly high risk of developing pressure injuries.
• Limited research exists on operating table pads and their effectiveness in preventing surgical pressure injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the tissue interface pressure associated with conventional operating table pads.
• To evaluate available products designed to reduce pressure injury risk in surgical patients.
• To address the gap in knowledge regarding pressure ulcer prevention during surgery, prompted by observed cases in vascular surgery.

Main Methods:

• Measurement of tissue interface pressure using standard operating table pads.
• Assessment of pressure-reducing devices intended for surgical use.
• Analysis of pressure data in the context of patient immobility during surgical procedures.

Main Results:

• Conventional operating table pads may not adequately mitigate tissue interface pressure.
• Specific pressure-reducing products show potential for mitigating pressure injury risks.
• Data highlights the need for specialized pressure management during prolonged surgical procedures.

Conclusions:

• Standard operating table pads may be insufficient for preventing pressure injuries in surgical patients.
• Further research and development of pressure-reducing technologies are crucial for surgical settings.
• Implementing effective pressure ulcer prevention strategies is essential, particularly for high-risk vascular surgery patients.