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- Talk
- 20/09/2022
- UK
Validation of a New, Low Profile, Adherence Sensor for Monitoring Orthosis Wear Time Following Surgical Repair of Flexor Tendon Injuries
Description
This presentation by Ellie Flatt from South Yorkshire focuses on the validation of temperature sensors for monitoring patient compliance with hand and wrist splints as part of a clinical trial. The study aims to support the transition to larger, pragmatic studies in healthcare by emphasizing the importance of subgroup analysis and process evaluations for personalized patient care. Flatt explains that compliance data is essential for understanding outcomes that may be dose-dependent, particularly in relation to the use of orthoses in post-operative recovery from flexor tendon repairs.
The research introduces a method for embedding commercially available, low-profile temperature sensors into various upper limb splint designs, aiming to identify optimal temperature thresholds for effective monitoring. A series of experiments conducted with healthy volunteers assessed the thermal response of three custom-made splint types, highlighting the significant relationship between orthosis materials and their thermal microclimate.
Initial findings indicate that while adequate peak temperatures can be achieved, there are notable discrepancies in statistical agreement when compared to spinal orthoses. Subsequent modifications, including the introduction of a three-layer insulation insert, improved the accuracy of the temperature sensors.
The results allow for refined recommendations regarding the insulation and threshold temperatures necessary for optimal patient adherence assessments, ultimately optimizing the use of thermal sensors in clinical practice and enhancing the reliability of compliance data in future trials.