The Evaluation of the Interaction Between Human Buttocks Thighs and Wheelchair Seat Cushion to Prevent Pressure Ulcers Using Finite Element Analysis

Abstract

This study quantifies the impact of seat wheelchair cushion in order to improve the sitting position of the patient. In fact, there are many ways to prevent pressure ulcers (PUs) by improving seated comfort and reducing of stress and pressure in the seat cushion for wheelchair users. The objective of cushions assistance for pressure ulcers prevention is to decrease the effects of pressure between wheelchair seat cushion and buttocks. We suggest two different cases in the interaction between wheelchair seat cushion and buttocks-thighs: using three-dimensional models of biomechanics, numerical simulation by finite element analysis. The compared results in this study can contribute to have the evaluation and prevention of PUs in seated position using seat wheelchair cushions. The pressure distribution investigation at surface of buttocks-thighs tissue with wheelchair seat cushion and stress on the buttocks-thighs tissue is very important.