Finite Element Analysis Modeling of Reduction of Strain with Silicone Foam Dressings

In the United States, pressure injuries are believed to affect over 2.5 million people. The prevalence of pressure ulcers in the EU is believed to be 13.7%. Recent guidelines have recommended the consideration of polyurethane foam dressings as part of pressure injury prevention strategies. This study assesses the reduction in tissue strain and stresses associated with the use of a new silicone foam dressing (TSF*).

Finite element analysis models (FEA) were used to investigate the ability of these silicone foam dressings to reduce tissue stress and strain energy density in the regions adjacent to the sacral bone. The loading modeled on the dressings was for combined compression and shear (modeling a patient laying in a 45° Fowler position). Nine commercially available silicone foam dressings and a no-dressing control were modeled.

FEA modeling showed that all silicone dressings tested, including the TSF dressing, achieved reductions in tissue distortional stress and strain energy density relative to no dressing conditions. Additionally, the use of TSF resulted in 35.3% lower volume of tissue exposed to higher stresses and deformation compared to no-dressing control.

The results presented indicate that TSF may provide an appropriate option for pressure ulcer prevention programs.

Trademarked Items (if applicable): *Tegaderm™ Silicone Foam Dressing (3M, St. Paul, MN)

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