Multimodality evaluation of pressure relief surfaces

Multimodality evaluation of six different support surfaces was performed measuring interface pressure, transcutaneous oxygen tension, and blood flow in pressure ulcer-prone areas on healthy subjects. Interface pressure was measured with a flexible force-sensing resistor array. The interface pressure distribution patterns of 10 healthy male volunteers were measured in the supine and lateral positions using a pressure sensor (force sensing resistor) array. Transcutaneous oxygen (TcPO2) and laser Doppler flowmeter probes were placed over the sacrum, the right trochanter, and the right ischium. Data were recorded for 15 minutes each with the subject in the supine and lateral decubitus positions. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) between the various surfaces could be observed for blood flow and pressure measurements, especially in the lateral position over the trochanter and for the TcPO2 measurements in the supine position over the sacrum. We conclude that measuring interface pressure, transcutaneous oxygen tension, and blood flow allows a more thorough evaluation of the physiologic effects of special support surfaces than any single technique. Future studies on patients will assess algorithms for using these measurement techniques to predict the efficacy of various support surfaces in minimizing pressure ulceration.