Use of an innovative pressure pad for the evaluation of 6 anti-decubitus cushions for wheelchair users

Objective For wheelchair users, the risk of developing pressure ulcers is real. It is economically estimated that treatment cost of this problem may be up to 30 k€ per person. Numerous studies have highlighted high pressure and the stress distribution on their buttock. Clinically this risk is reduced by the choice of specific cushions whose characteristics of the materials make it possible to reduce these high pressures. However, the choice of these cushions requires a mechanical evaluation that allows the clinician to make his choice. The objective of this study is to evaluate the pressure distribution of 6 anti-decubitus cushions during a mechanical test. Material/Patients and methods An innovative matrix pressure sensor was used for this study (TextiMat, Texisense, Montceau-les-mines). This matrix consists of sensors woven with textile fibers. This deformation capacity gives the possibility to evaluate 6 different cushions (light foam, 2 visco-elastic foams, gel and foam, TPU, inner tubes). A compression tests on a traction machine equipped with a rigid wooden buttocks and thighs (ISO 16840-2). Three types of tests were carried out: without cover, with cover, and on a wheelchair seat structure (stretched canvas). Results Concerning pressure peaks, the main results indicate a different mechanical behavior between the cushions. The values are higher without the cover than with the cover. When tested on a wheelchair seat structure, the peak values are almost similar between the cushions. Nevertheless, the cushions are clearly differentiated on the distribution of these pressures. The cushions: TPU, gel + foam and inner tubes, are the most effective. Discussion/Conclusion The results emphasizing the importance of assessing the cushions on structures to sitting wheelchair. In the same way, these results indicate the advantage of carrying out pressure assessments with a deformable tool that does not add stiffness to the entire seat: cushion and structure.