Clinical study
When starting Starfish of Sweden we realised that there has been no studies done on the existing preventing solutions for pressure ulcers. The standard solution with cutted foam has no clinical evidence, therefore we decided to do our own clinical study comparing our solution with the standard solution on the Swedish market. In order to do the study we contacted Lund Institute of Technology (LTH) who has provided us with knowledge and skilled researchers in ordder to measure the most important factors behind pressure ulcers: Micro blood flow, oxygen supply, temperature and humidity.
A unique measuring method
After an initial digital simulation of results we choose to do a live study on patients. Therefore we have built up our own calibrated test facility in our research lab in Malmö, Sweden. The facility is the first in the world able to measure micro bloodflow in those areas where pressure ulcers are most commen.
Method
The study utilized both digital simulations and clinical pilot testing with test persons in our lab facility.
Digital Simulations
Conducted by Medtech specialists from Additude AB in 2021, these simulations guided the final prototype design. Results indicated a theoretical 20% improvement in performance over standard foam mattresses.
Clinical Pilot Study
Conducted in collaboration with specialists at the Lund Institute of Technology, the study involved five participants tested under controlled conditions. Measurements included micro blood flow, oxygen supply, temperature, and humidity, comparing the Starfish mattress with the standard slotted foam mattress.
Test equipment and measurements
The clinical test used advanced equipment from Perimed in order to measure how efficient the two mattresses where when compared:
- Microbloodflow was measured using Laser Doppler technique
- Oxygen supply was measured locally on the skin (TCPO2)
- Measurement of temperature locally on the skin
- Measurement of moisture locally on the skin
Key Findings
Blood Flow
The Starfish mattress demonstrated a 24% improvement in micro blood flow in critical areas compared to the Care of Sweden mattress, highlighting its potential to reduce the risk of pressure ulcers through enhanced circulation.
Oxygen Supply
Results indicated a 20% better oxygen supply with the Starfish mattress, which is vital for maintaining healthy skin and preventing ulcers.
Temperature Control
The Starfish mattress maintained a consistently lower temperature (0.5°C less than the standard), which helps prevent moisture buildup — a known risk factor for skin breakdown.
Humidity Management
While initial humidity levels were slightly lower in the Care of Sweden mattress, both systems showed similar humidity levels after 20 minutes. This steady control of moisture further supports skin integrity and ulcer prevention.
These findings underscore the potential of Starfish’s mattress technology as a more effective and costefficient solution to pressure ulcer prevention. By proactively addressing the underlying causes of ulcers, the Starfish mattress can contribute to better patient outcomes and significant cost savings for healthcare providers CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings.
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