Smart Sheet: Pressure Ulcer Prevention Technology

Pressure ulcers are a major health concern around the world, affecting individuals living with spinal cord injury (SCI) in particular. Pressure ulcers occur when the blood supply to the skin and underlying tissue is compromised, leading to cell death and potentially fatal infections. In this project, we are developing a soft, flexible and stretchable pressure sensing sheet for pressure ulcer prevention. The device is designed for wheelchair use, where it covers the entire seating area over the cushion. It measures pressure continuously over long periods of time and collects the pressure data of the users. The data collected will be displayed on smart devices as a pressure heatmap for users to view. A prevention algorithm developed based on the relationship between externally applied pressure, tissue oxygenation and intrinsic factors, enables the device to predict high-risk pressure ulcer locations for each user, and alerting them prior to any ulceration. The success and envisioned use of this device will prevent one of the most burdensome, costly and fatal secondary medical conditions, improving the quality of life of individuals susceptible and reducing the healthcare cost.

Faculty Supervisor:

John Madden;Babak Shadgan

Student:

Partner:

Praxis Spinal Cord Institute

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Biotechnology; Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Technology

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: