Kirton

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Summary of Research on the Intelli-Gel® Cushion

The project involved:

• A review of the scientific literature on seating and the aetiology of pressure ulcers
• A review of scientific methods to objectively evaluate seat materials
• Extensive research into existing and emerging materials that could be used in pressure relieving cushions
• In-house testing at Kirton Healthcare evaluating the multitude of materials and combinations using pressure mapping technology
• Laboratory bench testing at Georgia Tech University using the ISO buttock model
• Clinical testing with patients having pressure ulcers up to Grade 2 (EPUAP) based on skin inspection
• Clinical testing with patients having pressure ulcers up to Grade 2 (EPUAP) based on imaging the deeper skin tissues using High Frequency Diagnostic Ultrasound

The clinical tests are in agreement and corroborate with the lab tests. The patients involved in the tests were aged between 78 and 96 years, and the Waterlow Score Range was between 19 and 31. Healing of the skin was observed in all patients. In addition, patients and the nursing home staff reported that the Intelli-Gel cushion provided more comfort, improved sitting posture and increased sitting tolerance by an average of 2 hours.

Based on the research undertaken, the Intelli-Gel® cushion is likely to be beneficial for individuals at very high risk of developing pressure ulcers, and for those individuals with existing pressure ulcers up to Grade 2.

To view Clinical Evaluation of Intelli-Gel® in a Nursing Home please click here

To view Ultrasound Evaluation of Intelli-Gel® Cushions in a Nursing Home please click here

To view Laboratory Bench Test of the Intelli-Gel® Cushion please click here

8th December 2009