Long-Term Care

Canadian researchers develop underwear to combat pressure ulcers

Contemporary Long-Term Care Weekly, September 24, 2009

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Alberta researchers, led by University of Alberta cell biology professor Vivian Mushahwar, are attempting to design underwear – dubbed, smart underpants – that will prevent pressure ulcers, according to the Ottawa Citizen.

Smart underpants will feature sensors capable of detecting pressure increases and changes in oxygen levels in the buttocks muscle, where pressure ulcers commonly occur. When the pressure reaches a predetermined level, the underwear will produce a brief jolt of electricity, intended to clench the muscle and thus improve blood circulation. Such a capability could radically benefit immobile individuals, including bed-ridden residents at long-term care facilities. Mushahwar, who continues to work with engineers, physicians, medical scientists, and rehabilitation specialists, plans on testing her product on patients in four Alberta care centers over the course of one year.



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