A high ‐resolution tape sensor improves the accuracy of applied pressure profiles during lower‐leg bandaging – results from a study using a fibre‐optic sensing tape

Abstract Compression bandaging is a mainstay practice in the treatment of conditions such as chronic wounds and lymphoedema. However, the ability of practitioners to measure bandage application to a desired pressure profile is difficult because of sensor limitations. We have used a novel fibre‐optic‐based, high‐resolution sub‐bandage pressure monitor to measure adherence to a target pressure gradient during compression bandaging. Participants of various experience (n = 46) were asked to bandage a lower‐leg manikin to a gradient of 40 (ankle) to 20 mmHg (proximal calf) in both a blinded trial and subsequently with sensor feedback. Mean pressures across all sensors for both the blind and sensor‐guided trials approximated a target mean of 30 mmHg. However, the mean gradient achieved in the blinded trial showed an inverse pressure gradient to the target with a high‐pressure region at the mid‐calf (44 ± 19 mmHg). Correlation to the target gradient improved from R2 = 0·62 during the blind trial to 0·93 using sensor feedback, with a gradient that closely approximated the target. This demonstrates the use of high‐resolution sub‐bandage pressure sensing in improving the ability of practitioners to achieve a target pressure gradient in compression bandaging for clinical use and training.
Source: International Wound Journal - Category: Surgery Authors: Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLE Source Type: research