Analysis of the measurement of four wound variables in elderly patients with pressure ulcers

The suitability of four different methods for measuring pressure ulcer size was investigated during 10 consecutive weeks in a group of 11 elderly patients. The methods used were: 1. Volume measurement by filling the wound cavity with a gel 2. area measurement, by tracing the wound boundary outlined on transparent film with a digital planimeter 3. perimeter measurement, by tracing the wound boundary outlined on transparent film with a digital measuring pen 4. depth measurement using a millimeter probe. The mean values of the rate parameters for volume, area, perimeter, and depth were approximately in the proportions 3:2:1:1, which mirrors the inherent geometric dimensions of the corresponding variables. The methods used for measuring perimeter and depth were less reliable than the methods used for measuring volume and area. Thus, the use of both volume and area measurements in recommended. The former is best suited for deep ulcers and the latter for broad, irregularly shaped ulcers.