The durability of the Semmes-Weinstein 5.07 monofilament.

Peripheral neuropathy is a risk factor that predisposes diabetic patients to plantar foot ulcerations and lower extremity amputations. Clinicians have searched for a reliable, cost-effective, and simple method in the identification of diabetic patients who are at increased risk of developing plantar foot ulcers. Currently, many diabetic foot clinics utilize the Semmes-Weinstein 5.07/10 g monofilament in this identification process. Ten 5.07 monofilaments were placed in an Instron Dynamic Testing Instrument and their respective filament forces were measured utilizing a Mettler scale after being subjected to repetitive applications. After 500 cycles were performed, there was an average filament force reduction of 1.2 g. After 1,500 cycles, there was still an average reduction of 1.2 g. F-testing and the Duncan test identified a significant difference between filament forces at 0, 500, 1,000, and 1,500 cycles. These data lead to a conclusion that continual utilization of the nylon filaments may lead to a reduced ability to accurately detect peripheral neuropathy and identify those who are at risk for the development of plantar foot ulcerations.