Pressure Ulcer Prevention: Effectiveness of Heel Off-Loading Methodologies

Abstract

Skin integrity breakdown and pressure ulcer formation on the heel are predictable and preventable healthcare occurrences. By minimizing surface contact pressures that can cause heel capillary occlusion, heel off-loading devices help mitigate the risk of decubitus ulceration. The purpose of this study is to investigate the efficacy of six off-loading methods commonly used in clinical settings to decrease heel contact pressure. Pressure mapping is used to evaluate contact pressure at the heel for underweight, normal weight, and overweight simulations. Based upon averages across four trials, it is shown that all devices reduce heel contact pressure when compared to no off-load- ing. The PRUventor™ boot exhibits significantly lower average pressure values than other off-load- ing strategies tested, suggesting that the PRUventor™ is the most effective off-loading device. From the analysis of the experimental data and comparison to similar data for respective off-loading alternatives, it is concluded that the PRUventor™ boot is an effective heel off-loading device for use in clinical settings.