title: Pressure-relieving devices for treating heel pressure ulcers.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Pressure ulcers are areas of localised damage to the skin and underlying tissue caused by pressure or shear. Pressure redistribution devices are used as part of the treatment to reduce the pressure on the ulcer. The anatomy of the heel and the susceptibility of the foot to vascular disease mean that pressure ulcers located there require a particular approach to pressure relief.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To determine the effects of pressure-relieving interventions for treating pressure ulcers on the heel.
  
  
  METHODS
  In May 2013, for this first update, we searched the Cochrane Wounds Group Specialised Register; The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library); Ovid MEDLINE; Ovid EMBASE; Ovid MEDLINE (In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations); and EBSCO CINAHL. No language or publication date restrictions were applied.
  
  
  METHODS
  We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the effects of pressure-relieving devices on the healing of pressure ulcers of the heel. Participants were treated in any care setting. Interventions were any pressure-relieving devices including mattresses and specific heel devices.
  
  
  METHODS
  Both review authors independently reviewed titles and abstracts and selected studies for inclusion. Both review authors independently extracted data and assessed studies for risk of bias.
  
  
  RESULTS
  In our original review, only one study met the inclusion criteria. This study (141 participants) compared two mattress systems; however, losses to follow up were too great to permit reliable conclusions. We did not find any further relevant studies during this first update.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This review identified one small study at moderate to high risk of bias which provided no evidence to inform practice. More research is needed.
authors: Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, c/o 2nd Floor Stable Block, Old Trust HQ, Leeds General Infirmary, Great George St, Leeds, UK, LS1 3EX.
authors: Elizabeth
authors: E
authors: McGinnis
authors: Nikki
authors: N
authors: Stubbs
mesh_terms: D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001512:Bedding and Linens; D001513:Beds; D016523:Foot Ulcer / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D006365:Heel; D006801:Humans; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D010352:Patient Dropouts; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000628:therapy*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic