What is a monofilament test?

What is a monofilament test?

Monofilament testing is an inexpensive, easy-to-use, and portable test for assessing the loss of protective sensation, and it is recommended by several practice guidelines to detect peripheral neuropathy in otherwise normal feet.

How do you test for monofilament?

Hold the monofilament perpendicular to the foot and with a smooth, steady motion, touch the skin until the monofilament bends approximately 1 cm (see Diagram A). Hold it against the skin for approximately 2 seconds. 7. Using the monofilament , randomly test 10 sites on each foot as indicated in Diagram B.

What is a monofilament used for?

A Semmes-Weinstein monofilament is commonly used to assess protective sensation in the feet of patients with diabetes. This simple, cost-effective device consists of a nylon filament mounted on a holder. It is calibrated to bend at 10 grams of force, which is generally perceptible in a foot with protective sensation.

How do you check for diabetic foot sensation?

Your provider will brush a soft nylon fiber called a monofilament over your foot and toes to test your foot’s sensitivity to touch. Tuning fork and visual perception tests (VPT). Your provider will place a tuning fork or other device against your foot and toes to see if you can feel the vibration it produces.

How many times can you use a monofilament?

Ideally, in clinical practice you should alternate between two monofilaments. As a general guide it should be replaced every 6 months for frequent use and 12 months for infrequent use. Also, it should be replaced if the filament becomes damaged or bent.

Why is the 5.07 monofilament test used?

As a quantitative sensory test, a monofilament is used to test a single point of touch pressure. A 5.07/10 g monofilament is used to screen for the presence or absence of protective sensation [12, 13]. Several studies have explored whether a monofilament test is a useful screening tool for the early detection of DPN.

Is monofilament or fluorocarbon better?

Toughness—Fluorocarbon is more abrasion resistant than standard nylon monofilament of the same diameter. Plus, while the sun’s harsh ultraviolet rays weaken nylon over time, fluorocarbon shrugs off UV with no ill-effects. Waterproof—Unlike mono and some superlines, fluoro doesn’t absorb water.

How do you examine a diabetic patient?

A diabetes-focused examination includes vital signs, funduscopic examination, limited vascular and neurologic examinations, and a foot assessment. Other organ systems should be examined as indicated by the patient’s clinical situation.

How long will monofilament line last?

There is no official answer for the life of these products, but we’ve compared estimates from various fishing publications and have gathered that monofilament has an average shelf life of two to three years, while fluorocarbon lines can last up to seven or eight years without losing its edge.

What is pinprick test?

pinprick test: a gross test to check two variables: (1) the actual ability to feel a pinprick and (2) the ability to determine the difference between sharp and dull. pressure testing: involves sensation produced by touch to a localized area using an instrument that indicates the pressure needed to produce sensation.

What is the definition of a monofilament test?

Monofilament Test Definition, Positive, Negative, Interpretation, Scoring. Monofilament is a portable strand made of nylon which is used to check sensation in the limbs in diabetic patients and in patients with other neuropathic conditions. It is also known as Semmes Weinstein monofilament examination SWME. It is a rapid method of testing.

What kind of filament is used for Sensory assessment?

Sensory assessment examinations are performed using a 5.07 Semmes-Weinstein monofilament . Traditionally the monofilament is composed of a nylon filament fixed to a plastic handle.

How are monofilaments used to map out sensory loss?

These monofilaments are used to map out sensory loss. The results are useful in comparing the sensory loss with the return of sensations on various regions of the body. We conducted this assessment only on the hand and forearm. The procedure in which this assessment is administered should be very systematic.

When to use monofilament testing for loss of protective sensation?

Monofilaments can be used for repeat testing as single patient use only. Interpretation of Results 1. If all sites are tested and the client feels the monofilament in each of the areas; then the score is 10/10. 2. If the monofilament is not felt in an area on the foot, this indicates loss of protective sensation (LOPS) in that area and