Article

Heel ulcers (HUs) are the second most common pressure ulcers (PUs). Despite the
significant morbidity and economic cost associated with HUs, there remains a lack
of understanding of the basic pathophysiology of PUs because of limited basic
research. There are only sparse data regarding the efficacy of prevention aids
such as heel padding devices, and these data are based mainly on epidemiological
research rather than biomechanical models and deformation measurements.
This study was designed to explore the effects of foot posture and support stiffness
properties on soft tissue deformations using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Subjects were scanned with and without weight bearing, in neutral external
rotation position and in 90 degrees to supporting surface and with different heel
padding devices. Tissue strains were calculated for skin, subcutaneous tissue,
and effective (total) soft tissue. We found skin strains with the foot in
external rotation to be significantly greater than when the foot was upright.
Heel padding devices have a statistically significant effect on reducing the
extent of deformations in both skin and subcutaneous tissues. Furthermore, the
design features of heel padding devices have substantial influence on tissue
deformations. This study demonstrates how MRI provides convenient, accurate, and
quantitative comparison of biomechanical performances of heel padding devices.

Langue : ANGLAIS