New Products and Industry News

Company adds third modality, safety feature option for its dual-function specialty surface

   Span-America Systems, Inc. (Greenville, SC) has added a deluxe control unit as an optional upgrade to its top-selling PressureGuard® APM2 support surface.

   First introduced in 2000, the support surface offers caregivers the option of alternating pressure or lateral rotation at the flip of a built-in toggle switch. With the new deluxe control unit, the surface will now provide powered flotation as well. In this mode, therapy is maintained but motion in the air cylinders is temporarily suspended to facilitate dressing changes, feeding, and other activities. The deluxe control unit is also outfitted with a low-pressure indicator light and shielded "quick connect" air line ports.

   The support surface is the featured product in a published clinical journal article in the April 2004 issue of Ostomy/Wound Management, documenting the effectiveness of lateral rotation as an adjunct to good wound care practices in closing Stage II through IV ulcers.

   As part of the company's PressureGuard treatment series, the support surface incorporates several design and safety features that make it especially popular in long-term care settings. The series includes the Geo-Matt® anti-shearing top surface and a multi-part Safety Edge™ non-collapsing bolster system.

   For more information, please call (800) 888-6752, or email info@spanamerica.com. 

Fastener provides hook and loop closure for ostomy pouches

   Marlen Manufacturing & Development Co. (Bedford, Ohio) introduced the E-Z Klose Fastener for closure of open-end, drainable ostomy pouches. The fastener utilizes a hook and loop closure along with a flexible stabilizing bar attached to both sides of the pouch opening. The user rolls up the end of the pouch three times using the bar as a guide and fastens the hook and loop closure. To drain the pouch, the user unfastens the hook and loop tape closure, unrolls the pouch, and pulls the drainable end open with the tab.

   For more information, visit www.marlenmfg.com.

Bowel management system reduces exposure to fecal waste

   Zassi Medical Evolutions, Inc. (Fernandina Beach, Fla.) Bowel Management System (BMS) is a catheter-based system that diverts, collects, and contains potentially contaminated fecal waste from bedridden patients. The product was designed to reduce the risk of hospital-acquired infections from fecal matter coming into contact with wounds, pressure sores, surgical sites, and burns. A study conducted at the Joseph M. Still Burn Center at Doctors Hospital in Augusta, Georgia, reported improved patient comfort, skin care, and improved prevention of skin breakdown resulting from stool contact.

   For more information, please call (904) 261-2169, or visit www.zassimedical.com.

Cream and gel treat dry and oily skin types

   Healthpoint, Ltd. (Fort Worth, Tex.) has introduced a cream and gel from its Ovace family of products used to reduce symptoms related to seborrheic dermatitis. The non-steroidal cream provides therapy that moisturizes, conditions, and protects patients with dry skin. The cream is non-irritating and remains on the skin to provide continuous therapy. The clear, alcohol-free water-based gel is effective for patients with oily skin.

   The odorless gel absorbs quickly and does not leave a greasy residue.

   For more information, visit www.healthpoint.com.

Recreational use stoma belt conceals and protects ostomy pouch

   Advent Product Development, Inc. (Pawleys Island, SC) introduced Zeltner's Recreational Stoma Belt as a protective cover for an ostomy pouch. The belt allows wearers to enjoy a more active lifestyle while not interfering with the functions of the ostomy appliance. The belt is designed to conceal and protect an ostomy bag or stoma from allowing germs and bacteria to enter, which can occur during outdoor and athletic activity. The belt's hook-and-loop fastener makes it easy to clean or replace.

   For more information, visit www.adventproduct.net.