Article

A repeated-measures study of 13 adult full-time wheelchair users with spinal cord
injury (SCI) was carried out to determine whether alternating-pressure air
cushion (APAC) use compared with independent pressure relief (IPR) provides
reliable, effective pressure relief for individuals with SCI. Bilateral mean
ischial interface pressure (IP), transcutaneous oxygen tension (TcPO2), and
unilateral laser Doppler blood flow were evaluated. Blood flow component
contributions were determined using short-time Fourier transform (STFT)-based
spectral analysis. IPR assessment was carried out at recruitment. Study
participants then used an APAC for 2 wk every 3 mo for 18 mo. IPR weight-shifting
decreased mean ischial IP (p < 0.05) and increased mean TcPO2 (p < 0.05). All
variables rapidly returned to preintervention levels following weight-shifting
except for the cardiac component of blood flow. APAC-induced weight-shifting
decreased mean ischial IP (p < 0.05). Mean TcPO2 increased and was higher than
for IPR. STFT analysis indicated that quiet sitting following APAC-induced
weight-shifting produced a higher neurogenic component of blood flow than
following IPR (p = 0.02). Thus, IPR positively affects multiple aspects of tissue
health but produces transient improvements and must be repeated regularly. APAC
activation dynamically and continuously alters IP distribution with more
sustained positive tissue health effects.

Langue : ANGLAIS