Investigating Intermittent Electrical Stimulation (IES) for Pressure Injury Prevention

Introduction: Pressure injuries, also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores, occur when prolonged pressure on the skin and underlying tissues reduces blood flow, leading to tissue damage and potential infection. These injuries can be particularly problematic for individuals with limited mobility, such as bedridden patients or those using wheelchairs. Intermittent Electrical Stimulation (IES) has shown potential in rehabilitation, neurophysiology, and biomedical engineering. We have developed a unique protocol that simulates natural fidgeting with 10-second stimulation intervals followed by 10-minute rest periods, ensuring 24/7 usability. This presentation explores IES as a preventative measure for pressure injuries, a major healthcare concern. We summarize the causes of pressure injuries and demonstrate how IES effectively addresses these issues, enhancing tissue health and preventing injury.Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature review on IES and its role in preventing pressure injuries, alongside presenting our pre-clinical and initial human trial results. Our analysis focused on the physiological effects of IES, such as tissue perfusion, oxygenation, and skin integrity. Utilizing graphical representations and statistical analyses, we demonstrate that IES improves tissue viability and mitigates pressure-related ischemia. The poster will offer practical guidelines for healthcare practitioners on IES application, detailing optimal parameters and protocols. By integrating existing research with our empirical data, we highlight the potential of IES as an effective supplementary therapy for pressure injury prevention.Results:Our findings indicate that IES significantly enhances tissue oxygenation through increased perfusion and decreased pressure in stimulated areas. This suggests that IES effectively reduces the risk of pressure injuries. Key outcomes include improved tissue perfusion and a consequent reduction in localized pressure, creating conditions that favor tissue viability and injury prevention.Discussion: By mimicking natural fidgeting, our IES protocol optimizes continuous, non-invasive therapy for promoting tissue health and preventing injuries. Our results show that IES can significantly improve tissue oxygenation, reduce pressure-related ischemia, and ultimately prevent pressure injuries. This innovative approach could set a new standard in non-invasive, continuous care, offering a promising solution for healthcare settings.References: