Castro-Martins Pedro, Pinto-Coelho Luís, Campilho Raul D S G
CIETI, ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal.
Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
Bioengineering (Basel). 2024 Aug 31;11(9):886. doi: 10.3390/bioengineering11090886.
Diabetic foot is a serious complication that poses significant risks for diabetic patients. The resulting reduction in protective sensitivity in the plantar region requires early detection to prevent ulceration and ultimately amputation. The primary method employed for evaluating this sensitivity loss is the 10 gf Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test, commonly used as a first-line procedure. However, the lack of calibration in existing devices often introduces decision errors due to unreliable feedback. In this article, the mechanical behavior of a monofilament was analytically modeled, seeking to promote awareness of the impact of different factors on clinical decisions. Furthermore, a new device for the automation of the metrological evaluation of the monofilament is described. Specific testing methodologies, used for the proposed equipment, are also described, creating a solid base for the establishment of future calibration guidelines. The obtained results showed that the tested monofilaments had a very high error compared to the 10 gf declared by the manufacturers. To improve the precision and reliability of assessing the sensitivity loss, the frequent metrological calibration of the monofilament is crucial. The integration of automated verification, simulation capabilities, and precise measurements shows great promise for diabetic patients, reducing the likelihood of adverse outcomes.
糖尿病足是一种严重的并发症，给糖尿病患者带来重大风险。足底区域保护性感觉减退需要早期检测，以预防溃疡并最终避免截肢。评估这种感觉丧失的主要方法是10克 Semmes-Weinstein单丝试验，通常作为一线检查方法使用。然而，现有设备缺乏校准，由于反馈不可靠，常常会导致决策错误。在本文中，对单丝的力学行为进行了分析建模，旨在提高人们对不同因素对临床决策影响的认识。此外，还介绍了一种用于单丝计量评估自动化的新设备。还描述了用于该设备的具体测试方法，为制定未来的校准指南奠定了坚实基础。所得结果表明，与制造商宣称的10克相比，测试的单丝误差非常大。为提高评估感觉丧失的精度和可靠性，对单丝进行频繁的计量校准至关重要。自动化验证、模拟能力和精确测量的整合对糖尿病患者显示出巨大前景，可降低不良后果的可能性。
