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Electrical stimulation to prevent recurring pressure ulcers in individuals with a spinal cord injury compared to usual care: the Spinal Cord Injury PREssure VOLTage (SCI PREVOLT) study protocol

Trials, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-022-06088-0 · Published: February 5, 2022

Spinal Cord InjuryNeurologyDermatology

Simple Explanation

Individuals with spinal cord injuries are prone to pressure ulcers. This study investigates if electrical stimulation can help prevent these ulcers. The study compares electrical stimulation plus usual care to usual care alone. The goal is to see if electrical stimulation can reduce the recurrence of pressure ulcers and improve related health factors.

Study Duration
12 Months
Participants
100 individuals with chronic spinal cord injury
Evidence Level
Level 1, Randomized Controlled Trial

Key Findings

  • 1
    The study aims to determine if electrical stimulation, alongside usual care, reduces pressure ulcer recurrences in individuals with chronic SCI.
  • 2
    Researchers will investigate the cost-effectiveness of electrical stimulation compared to usual care.
  • 3
    The study will explore factors that facilitate or hinder the implementation of daily electrical stimulation.

Research Summary

The SCI PREVOLT study is a multicentre randomized controlled trial with an economic and process evaluation. It will assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of electrical stimulation (ES) plus usual care on the occurrence of pressure ulcers (PUs) compared with only usual care in individuals with chronic SCI. One hundred participants with a SCI in the chronic phase and a minimal incidence of 1 PU in the last 5 years will be recruited from rehabilitation centres across the Netherlands. The primary outcome is the incidence of PUs, measured by a blinded person assessing the presence or absence of a PU on the buttocks on a photo made by the participant or his/her caregiver and evaluated every 2 weeks.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

If ES is effective, it could be integrated into the daily treatment of individuals with SCI to prevent pressure ulcers.

Cost Reduction

Preventing pressure ulcer recurrence may reduce healthcare costs and work absenteeism associated with their treatment.

Quality of Life

Reducing pressure ulcers can improve mobility, independence, and overall quality of life for individuals with SCI.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    The study relies on participant-provided photos for primary outcome assessment, which may introduce variability.
  • 2
    The study's success depends on participant adherence to the electrical stimulation protocol.
  • 3
    Generalizability may be limited to similar healthcare settings and patient populations.

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