A randomized control trial was conducted to determine the efficacy of two O.R. table surfaces for the prevention of perioperative pressure ulcers. A total of 323 high-risk patients were separated into two groups. The control group (n=176) went through surgery on a standard O.R. table pad3 while the study group (n=147) utilized a multilayer pressure reduction surface (Alto Surface). The study group exhibited dramatically fewer patients presenting ulcers (38% control compared to only 7% study) indicating the O.R. table surface is a factor in pressure ulcer development in the OR.

High-risk patients were selected for the study. Selection criteria included age, procedure length, and absence of pressure ulcers. There was no difference between the two groups
according to their key risk factors age, albumin, and American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) physical status scores outlined in table 1. Prior to surgery and for three days post-op a member of the research team performed skin assessments observing for pressure ulcer incidence. The study was completed in a sequential fashion with the control group reaching completion prior to initiating the study group.

The control group (n=176) using the standard O.R. table pad had 66 patients (38%) develop ulcers. The 66 patients exhibited a total of 104 distinct ulcers. The study group using the Alto Surface had dramatically fewer patients present ulcers (10 patients or 7% of the study group). The 10 patients exhibited a total of 14 ulcers. In addition, the study group using the Alto pad did not present any stage II-IV ulcers while the control group had 4 stage II and 1 stage III ulcer (see graph).

The Alto surface was statistically significant (P < 0.000) in reducing the incidence of pressure ulcer formation compared to the standard O.R. table surface. This data indicates
the O.R. surface should be a consideration when developing a program to reduce hospital acquired pressure ulcers.