(via Vista Medical)
For some time now medical professionals have been searching for a reliable way to distribute and reduce pressure on patients bodies to prevent costly and elusive medical conditions, such as pressure ulcers (bedsores). Vista Medical's pressure mapping system appears to end that search. With an easy to use pressure mat, interface module, and display, medical users can quickly analyze and locate areas of high pressure on a patient's body.
Stretchable fabric sensors with advanced elastic 3D properties are the brains behind the pressure mapping. The pressure mat is made up of 3 layers of fabric that collectively gather and send information to the interface over a 77”x44” mat featuring 864 sensors. The top and bottom layers are conductive columns and rows respectively, made from Eastex or a spandex type of material. The middle layer houses the pressure sensitive fabric which works by varying electrical resistance due to force. Although pressure sensors are nothing new, this system boasts the world's first 3D, stretchable, and breathable pressure sensing material.
Research has shown that pressure mapping is a reliable means to analyze and redistribute a person's mass over a supported surface. In addition, the easy-to-use system and display make it ideal for integrating into current medical equipment. The display maps the pressure using a color system, hotter colors indicating more pressure, and it allows different diagrams. For example, users can view a 2D view of the pressure surface, a 3D view of peak pressure areas, or view statistical information. The valuable pressure mapping information offered can help prevent many medical conditions and help give patients the right support from the start of operations. These mats may help take the pressure off of visiting the doctor's office for a checkup.
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