Heel and Calf Capillary-Support Pressure in Lithotomy Positions

Roeder, Rebecca A.; Geddes, Leslie A.; Corson, Neal; Pell, Carrie; Otlewski, Michael; Kemeny, Andre

doi:10.1016/S0001-2092(06)60361-X

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Volume 81, Issue 4 , Page 821, April 2005

Heel and Calf Capillary-Support Pressure in Lithotomy Positions

Rebecca A. Roeder
- Rebecca A. Roeder, PhD, is a postdoctoral research associate, Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind.
Leslie A. Geddes
- Leslie A. Geddes, PhD, is the Showalter Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Bioengineering, Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind.
Neal Corson
- Neal Corson, BS, is an MD/PhD student at the University of Chicago, Chicago.
Carrie Pell
- Carrie Pell, BS, is a veterinary technician at Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis.
Michael Otlewski
- Michael Otlewski, BSE, is a research assistant, Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind.
Andre Kemeny
- Andre Kemeny, BSEE, is a research assistant, Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind.

ABSTRACT

•A THREE-PART ANALYSIS was undertaken to increase understanding of the occurrence of pressure ulcers in lithotomy positions. An innovative measuring device was used to determine capillary pressure.

•ANKLE BLOOD PRESSURE was measured compared to ankle height in 11 participants. Ankle systolic and diastolic pressure decreased approximately 20 mmHg per foot of elevation.

•CALF AND HEEL CAPILLARY-SUPPORT pressures were measured in 15 participants in the standard lithotomy position. Capillary-support pressure for the calf was substantially less than for the heel.

•HEEL CAPILLARY-SUPPORT PRESSURES were measured in 16 participants in the high lithotomy position. As heel height increased, capillary-support pressure also increased. AORN J 81 (April 2005) 821–830.