Voxilization-based Monte Carlo simulation of the ischial tuberosity (Conference Presentation)

Patients with spinal cord injuries (SCI) are often subject to continues stationary pressure on prominent bony areas which, over and extended period of time, become high risk regions for pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers are as prevalent as 30% in those with SCI and are one of the leading causes of re-hospitalization. In order to develop a better understanding of the methods of treating and preventing these pressure ulcers, we have developed a voxilization based model of the ischial tuberosity based on a Monte Carlo framework. The 3D model of the underside of the pelvis, the ischial tuberosity, allows for variation of the layers of the skin, fat, and muscle created in Solidworks. From the 3D model, the simulation was done with Monte Carlo eXtreme, a GPU-based Monte Carlo model. Tissue layer changes due to movement of the muscle and compression when sitting which results in a significant reduction of the muscle thickness have been accounted for in our model. Skin and muscle profusion of SCI patients is not well known and limited experimental work has been conducted in this environment. This model can aid in the study of methods of improving and maintaining skin health and help with rehabilitation and prevention of pressure ulcers.