Study results: prediction and prevention of pressure ulcers in surgical patients

Article Abstract:

A special OR mattress with heel and elbow protectors may not prevent pressure ulcers in surgery patients. A study of 413 surgery patients found that the incidence of pressure ulcers of Stage I to Stage IV was 21.5%. Many of the ulcers occurred three to four days after surgery. Older patients and those with diabetes or obesity or those undergoing vascular surgery were more likely to develop ulcers. Patients who used the special mattress were also more likely to develop ulcers.

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Pressure ulcer risk factors in the operating room

Article Abstract:

Research is in progress to determine ways to avoid pressure ulcers in patients in the OR. The time on the OR table, the patient's age, weight, nutrition and medical history are all risk factors for pressure ulcers. Prolonged immobility after surgery is also a risk factor. Pressures next to bony prominences can actually be 3 to 4 times higher than capillary pressure. Foam mattresses can reduce the pressure, as can mattresses that inflate and deflate.

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Prospective study of the incidence of OR-induced pressure ulcers in elderly patients undergoing lengthy surgical procedures

Article Abstract:

Comorbidity and prolonged bedrest appear to be major risk factors for pressure ulcers in elderly surgery patients. Researchers studied the incidence of pressure ulcers in 100 elderly patients undergoing CABG, valve replacement, cardiac catheterization or surgery lasting 8 hours or more. Four patients developed ulcers and they all had diabetes and hypertension. Three had lengths of stay much longer than average.

Aged patients, Elderly patients

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