Monitoring pressure injuries under casts in children with disabilities
Summary
Children with disabilities are at risk of having pressure injuries from long stays at the hospital. This is especially a concern for children with disabilities who cannot express their discomfort and may have reduced sensation. We are investigating the use of thermal imaging to monitor the risk of pressure injuries under leg casts. The study involves collecting thermal images of your leg cast until it is cut open. This research may help us develop technology to monitor and prevent pressure injuries for patients in the future.
Call to action
Does your child have a leg cast and is receiving care at Holland Bloorview? They may be eligible to participate in our research study on monitoring pressure injuries.
Who can participate
To be eligible to participate in the study, you must meet the following:
- Are 18 years old or under,
- Are within the first week of admission to any inpatient unit at HB,
- Have a full leg cast that is expected to remain in place for at least 1 week,
- Can keep your leg still for 30 minutes at a time for imaging
Funding agency
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)
What's involved
- We will collect information about your demographics, personal health, skin color, primary diagnosis, and details of your orthopedic surgery and cast.
- We will take thermal images of your leg twice daily (morning and evening). Each session will take up to 30 minutes. This will be done every weekday for up to 6 weeks or until your cast is cut open.
- Your clinician will periodically check your skin condition and assess any pressure injuries (if present).
Deadline
Interested in participating
If you are interested in participating in this study or have additional questions, please contact Jason Leung at jleung@hollandbloorview.ca or 416-425-6220 x6236. Contacting us does not obligate you to participate in the study.
Additional information
Version date: April 13, 2026
eREB# 0785 – Monitoring pressure injuries under orthopedic casts in hospitalized children with disabilities
