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With the pervasive nature of skin disorders among the elderly, identifying viable solutions often presents an elusive challenge. An innovative technology solution promotes faster wound healing with the use of plasma.
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Plasma Speeds Wound Healing
Many people suffer from skin disorders. Open wounds are a particularly acute problem, especially among the elderly. PlasmaDerm, a new medical technology solution, uses plasma to facilitate faster healing of wounds.
Skin disorders are a common problem. Atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and chronic venous leg ulcers, typically caused by diabetes or varicose veins, can cause patients years of suffering. Working collaboratively with business and academic entities, the Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films IST has successfully developed the new medical technology solution for treating wounds and skin disorders. Plasma promotes wound healing when it is applied directly to the skin.
“All you feel is a slight tingling sensation,” says professor Wolfgang Viöl from Fraunhofer IST. A device approximately the size and shape of a pocket flashlight delivers the plasma in the form of ionized gas, the only evidence of which appears in the form of a faint purple mist.
PlasmaDerm, a novel wound care solution, was developed by a team comprising medical professionals, biologists, physicists, and engineers. For the first time, the device is capable of generating a nonthermal or cold plasma directly on the skin at atmospheric pressure. The patented method involves placing the electrode of the device close to the skin, with the skin itself acting as the second electrode. A high voltage is then applied across the gap, and the resulting electric fields convert the area between the electrode and the skin into nonthermal plasma.
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Invia Motion
Medela has announced the addition of the Invia Motion-15-Days and Invia Motion-Endure personal pumps to its Negative Pressure Wound Therapy line. The devices are designed to provide safe and effective advanced wound treatment to patients, according to the company. The new personal pumps offer patients mobility and freedom while providing individualized therapy. The Invia Motion-15-Days is designed for short therapy duration. When advanced wound therapy is required, the Invia Motion-Endure is appropriate, and is billable under Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System code E2402. Learn more »
AmpliVox BeltBlaster Sound System
The BeltBlaster Voice Booster is a lightweight battery-powered 5 W sound system to be worn on a belt for hands-free convenience. The unit connects to either a lapel or headset microphone, and provides sufficient sound coverage for groups of up to 75 people. It includes fingertip controls for volume and a handheld mute button designed for easy user operation. The unit’s rechargeable batteries last for up to six hours on a single charge and can be replaced with standard AA batteries. A weather-resistant neoprene cover protects the unit and enhances its acoustics. The Voice Booster can help anyone who needs assistance being heard. Learn more » |
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