The use of free software as a resource for venous ulcers area measurement

Abstract

Aim: to verify the reproducibility of the Image tool software use for measuring venous ulcers area. Method: reproducibility assessment study of tests conducted in an angiology outpatient clinic of a university hospital in southern Brazil. Patients with venous ulcers were selected, having their ulcers photographed and measured using the above mentioned software. Data were statistically analysed. Results: no difference (p = 0.51) was observed between measurements. Excellent values of Intraclass Correlation Coefficient and Concordance Correlation Coefficient were observed. The software seems to be more accurate when used to measure large wounds (area>10 cm). Conclusion: Image tool software is reproducible for measuring venous ulcers area, being more precise to measure venous ulcers with area> 10 cm².

Keywords

• enfermagem
• úlcera varicosa
• pesos e medidas
• validação de programas de computador
• informática em enfermagem