Demonstration of pressure reduction in a new proof of concept spine board

Model System:

SCI

Reference Type:

Journal article

Accession No.:

J88137

Journal:

Assistive Technology

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2021 , 33, 6, 341-349

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study assessed the interface pressures and sensing area between the body and the standard spine board (SSB) and a proof-of-concept spine board prototype (P-5). Pressure injuries are a significant problem following spinal cord injury. High interface pressures while lying on a spine board during emergency transport appear to play a major role in their formation. Twenty-one able-bodied subjects were assessed on each board. Interface pressures and sensing area were recorded every minute over a 15-minute period. The mean peak pressure was higher on the SSB at the head, scapulothoracic (S-T), sacroiliac (S-I), and heels (227.6 mmHg, 148.9 mmHg, 360.3 mmHg, and 179.3 mmHg) compared to P-5 (51.9 mmHg, 60.1 mmHg, 66.8 mmHg, and 60.2 mmHg). The peak pressure index (PPI) at the head, S-T and S-I was higher on the SSB (100.2 mmHg, 101.6 mmHg, and 270.6 mmHg) compared to P-5 (41.6 mmHg, 51.9 mmHg and 58.7 mmHg). An analysis using pairwise comparisons for repeated measures showed that interface pressures and PPI were reduced at all locations. Modifications of a spine board incorporated in P-5 can dramatically reduce interface pressures and reduce pressure injury formation.

Author(s):