Utilisation of skin blood flow as a precursor for pressure injury development in persons with acute spinal cord injury: A proof of concept

Int Wound J, 2022 · DOI: 10.1111/iwj.13829 · Published: September 1, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Cardiovascular Science Dermatology

Simple Explanation

This study examines whether skin blood flow measurements can be used to predict pressure injury development in patients with acute spinal cord injury (SCI) during their hospital stay. The study used bedside skin blood flow measurements before a pressure injury develops in spinal cord injured patients during acute hospitalisation. The study found that heat hyperemia (increased blood flow due to localized heating) was smaller in participants who developed pressure injuries.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

11 adults with acute traumatic SCI

Evidence Level

Observational study

Key Findings

1
Objective and non-invasive skin blood flow measurements can be obtained at the bedside during acute hospitalization of spinal cord injury (SCI) for research purposes.
2
Reactive and heat hyperemia could be induced successfully at the bedside in adults with acute SCI.
3
Heat hyperemia was smaller in participants with pressure injury.

Research Summary

This proof-of-concept study examined objective skin blood flow measurement as a bedside approach to quantify microvascular function during acute hospitalisation of traumatic SCI. The study compared differences in reactive hyperemia and heat hyperemia in participants who developed a pressure injury vs those that did not prior to discharge from hospital. The study demonstrated that objective and non-invasive skin blood flow measurements could be obtained at the bedside on people during acute hospitalisation of SCI for the purpose of research, without interfering with medical care.

Practical Implications

Research Tool

Skin blood flow measurements could be a potential research tool for quantifying microvascular function in SCI patients during acute hospitalization.

Predictive Marker

Reduced heat hyperemia may serve as a predictor for pressure injury development, warranting further investigation.

Bedside Monitoring

The study demonstrates the feasibility of incorporating blood flow measurement protocols at the bedside for research.

Utilisation of skin blood flow as a precursor for pressure injury development in persons with acute spinal cord injury: A proof of concept

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Research Tool

Predictive Marker

Bedside Monitoring

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Utilisation of skin blood flow as a precursor for pressure injury development in persons with acute spinal cord injury: A proof of concept

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Research Tool

Predictive Marker

Bedside Monitoring

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?