A system and method for a pressure-detection mat used in an operating table for monitoring pressure of a subject undergoing a medical procedure and preventing the development of pressure ulcers. The disclosure relates to pressure distribution monitoring over an operating table mattress having at least one discontinuity bridged by using bridging wires to connect a first segment and a second segment of a conducting strip created by the discontinuity. The pressure distribution may be presented on a display unit in a normalized manner to provide indications for the operating team.