GE has partnered with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to test a new multi-parameter sensor for detecting and monitoring decubitus pressure ulcers. The handheld portable device has a thermal sensor for spotting elevated temperature on the skin, a parameter that can point to infection or active healing, depending on where the heat around the wound is produced. A visual light sensor provides information on the color and texture of the skin, while a hyper-spectral light sensor estimates the amount of oxygenated and de-oxygenated hemoglobin below the test site. A 3D sensor maps out the volumetric shape of pressure sores, providing an ability to measure the size and nature of the ulcer. There’s even a vapor sensor that can identify gases released by an ulcer. On top of the sensors that evaluate the skin, there’s also a “situational awareness sensor” that monitors the position of the patient, helping to keep an eye on how much time the body has spent in one state, helping to avoid the onset of pressure ulcers.
There’s currently 18 volunteers at the Augusta VA Medical Center’s Spinal Cord Injury Unit testing the new probe. We’re certainly hoping that this new technology will help avoid pressure ulcers which seem remarkably easy to prevent with a bit of vigilance and constant monitoring.
Source: GE…