Variability of pressure at the pressure garment-scar interface in children after burn: A pilot longitudinal cohort study

Abstract

Background: Current consensus for the ideal pressure range at the pressure garment to scar interface is 15-25mmHg. Interface pressure variability has been reported at new pressure garment fitting in children. Pressure reductions up to 25% have been recorded over one month in adults.

Method: A pilot longitudinal cohort study was completed with children aged less than 18 years receiving pressure garment therapy after burn. Interface pressure was measured at first pressure garment fitting, one month and three months after fitting. Analysis was conducted using Linear Mixed Models.

Results: Thirty-four children were recruited to the study, 62% were male. Participants had a median (IQR) age of 3 (6) years. At the first garment fitting, 32% of stationary and 25% of dynamic measurements were within 15-25mmHg. Pressure variations were recorded at one and three months with scar location (p=0.03) and %TBSA (p=0.006) identified as predictors of stationary interface pressure. No statistically significant predictors of dynamic pressure were identified.

Discussion: Interface pressure variability was recorded over time during children's wear of the first pressure garment after burn. Further investigation of factors contributing to pressure changes, subsequent impact on adherence and the effect of sub-optimal pressure application on burn scar outcomes is indicated.

Keywords: Burn scar; Burns; Cicatrix; Interface pressure; Paediatrics; Pressure garment therapy.