Dynamic Pressure Relief for the Wheelchair User with Long-Term Therapeutic Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation
By Bogie, Kath; Triolo, Ronald J., PhD; Chae, John, MD; Proceedings of the RESNA 25th International Conference, Vol. 22, No. 1, pp. 169-171Publication Date: June/July 2002
Study investigating the hypothesis that long-term use of dynamic neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) using an implanted gluteal stimulation system can provide regular periodic variations in seating interface pressure distributions and produce a sustained improvement in regional tissue health. To test the hypothesis, a four-channel percutaneous electrode system was implanted in the gluteus maximus. The participant was then required to maintain full bed rest for two to three days, followed by limited mobility for one week before beginning the program. Following muscle conditioning, the NMES system was used daily. Tissue health was monitored using four quantitative assessment techniques: (1) regional blood flow was monitored using TINA TCM3-2 monitor; (2) seated interface pressure was monitored using the Tekscan Advanced Clinical Seating System; (3) Real-time 3-D images were used to measure pressure distribution; and (4) muscle thickness was determined using transverse section CT scans through the gluteal muscles at pre-defined bony landmarks. Three participants took part in the study. Each met the program criteria, which included having a complete motor and sensory spinal cord injury above the level of T12 for over one year. Assessment of tissue health characteristics demonstrated that use of the NMES yielded positive changes in regional tissue health.
Published by: Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) (Website:http://www.resna.org)
ISBN: 00-932101-44-5
This publication is included in the library of the National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC), accession number O14509
