Effect of patented adjustable elevation pad on patients with fractures of lower extremities

Abstract

Objective To investigate the efficacy of patented adjustable elevation pad (AEP) in the management of patients with fractures of lower extremities. Methods A total of 154 patients with acute fractures of lower extremities were recruited and randomized into three groups. Traditional pad, 10 cm AEP, and 13 cm AEP was used in each group. The patients with skeletal traction or suspected compartment syndrome were excluded. The calf circumference, swelling, pain, and comfort level were assessed after admission, and at 24 h (P ＞ 0. 05 ), 48 h , and 72 h subsequently. Results No significant difference was observed considering the change of calf circumference, swelling, or pain among groups during the first 24 h. At 48 h and 72 h,significant differences were found between the traditional pad group and the AEP groups including the change of calf circumference, swelling, or pain(P ＜0. 01 or P ＜0. 05). While groups treated with 10 cm AEP and 13 cm AEP showed no difference( P ＞0. 05 ). The AEP groups presented higher comfort levels than the traditional pad group at all the time points of assessment. Conclusions The patented adjustable elevation pad was testified to facilitate the release of swelling, decrease the rate of complication, help pain release, increase comfort levels and shorten the time of perioperative hospital stay. Key words: Adjustable elevation pad; Fracture of lower extremity; Practice protocol