Pressure Sore Prevention

This program explores utilizing a fully implanted electrical stimulation system to prevent the occurrence of pressure ulcers in individuals with a spinal cord injury.

Overview

Pressure sores are still a major complication that occur all too frequently for many people with long-term disability. Individuals with limited or restricted mobility is at increased risk for development of a pressure sore. Pressure ulcers can have a devastating impact on the quality of life resulting in frequent hospital admissions and long periods of bed rest. There continues to be a need for alternative approaches to pressure sore prevention. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation provides a unique methodology to alter the intrinsic properties of paralyzed muscle and improve regional tissue health. Previous studies have shown that regular daily use of therapeutic gluteal FES can have a positive impact on multiple indirect indicators of tissue health.

This program explores using a fully implanted gluteal stimulation system to prevent the occurrence of pressure sores/ulcers in individuals with a spinal cord injury. Electrical stimulation improves tissue health at the seat and provides a method of weight-shifting that makes conventional pressure relief adjustment maneuvers more effective.