Measurement of sub-bandage pressure during venous compression therapy using flexible force sensors

Compression bandaging is the most common therapy used to treat venous ulceration. The bandages must be applied so that they generate a specific pressure profile in order for the treatment to be effective. No method currently exists to monitor the pressure applied by the bandage over a number of days outside of a laboratory setting. A portable device was developed that is capable of monitoring sub-bandage pressure as the user goes about their daily routine. The device consists of four Tekscan FlexiForce A401-series force sensors connected to an excitation circuit and PIC microcontroller circuit. It is capable of measuring pressures in the range of 0 – 96 mmHg. These sensors were chosen because they are cheap, thin, flexible and durable. Both circuits are housed in a protective case that attaches to the users leg. Preliminary results correspond with the pressure values stated in the literature and the device is capable of generating accurate sub-bandage pressure data.