Development of an Occipital Decompression Orthosis ( ODO) for critically ill patients in intensive care units

Introduction: Pressure ulcers (PU) are caused by prolonged contact of the skin with a surface, leading to significant damage that is difficult to recover from. Occupational therapists can play a role in preventing these injuries through the creation of assistive technology devices. Objectives: To present the development of a device to prevent and treat PU in the occipital region: the Occipital Decompression Orthosis (ODO). Method: This is an exploratory study applied using the project management method and developed in four stages. The device began to be developed in 2017 in a reference trauma hospital in the metropolitan region of Belem, state of Para, Brazil. Results: A survey of devices available on the market was conducted, from which the ODO was developed. This orthosis uses the pyramidal mattress, a low-cost material that provides constant low pressure on the patient's occipital segment and was designed through an anthropometric assessment. Based on a literature review and a financial study, a model was created for decompression of the segment. This alternative model is low-cost and effective in preventing PU. Conclusion: The ODO is still under a refinement process. Although it is based on current literature addressing pressure injury prevention, it is still necessary to conduct a rigorous scientific study to verify its efficacy. The ODO presents limitations, especially regarding its approval for use by hospitals.