Efforts to standardize protocols for plantar pressure measurement devices (PMDs) so data can be more easily interpreted and compared by scientists and clinicians have produced a draft consensus document, “Agreement on PMD hardware performance assessment,” that is open for comment and feedback through July 31 at http://moodle.i-fab.org. Free registration is required for participation in the survey. The consensus document also was presented and discussed at the International Foot and Ankle Biomechanics Pedobarographic Group (i-FAB-PG) General Meeting in Brussels on July 5.
Claudia Giacomozzi, PhD, senior researcher at the Italian National Institute of Health, has spearheaded the standardization project, which covers eight issues, including hardware performance, measuring protocols, data processing, and parameters related to diagnosis and therapy (see “Standardized system for PMDs wins nod,” 2011 LER Resource Guide, page 122). Giacomozzi and her team also want regulation of PMDs as medical devices, international and intercorporate cooperation on standards, and simplification of terminology.
Clinicians can provide comments on the entire document or on separate issues. After the survey closes the group will summarize results and continue activities aimed at a wider general agreement within the scientific community through the year, up to the i-FAB 2012 meeting.
