A Systematic Review of Therapeutic Interventions for Pressure Ulcers After Spinal Cord Injury

Regan MA, Teasell RW, Wolfe DL, Keast D, Mortenson WB, Aubut JL, for the Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Evidence Research Team. A systematic review of therapeutic interventions for pressure ulcers after spinal cord injury.

Objective

To systematically review evidence on the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers in those with a spinal cord injury (SCI).

Data Sources

For this evidence-based review, the following data sources were used: MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, and PsycINFO.

Study Selection

To be selected for inclusion in the current review, there had to have been an intervention, studies had to have 3 or more subjects, and 50% or more of the participating group had to have an SCI.

Data Extraction

Data extracted included study design, subject demographics, inclusion and exclusion criteria, study type, sample size, outcome measures used, and study results.

Data Synthesis

Articles selected for this review were organized into 1 of 2 categories: prevention or treatment. Within each broad category, several smaller ones were created, and articles were grouped according to the prevention (direct or indirect) or treatment intervention discussed.

Conclusions

Of the 26 articles selected for inclusion in the systematic review, 7 were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that dealt with treatment for pressure ulcers, and there was 1 RCT on prevention. Despite the cost-effectiveness of prevention, little research exists on preventative interventions, and what does exist is mostly level 4 evidence. More research is needed for both prevention and treatment, but especially the former.