How does Air Fluidized Therapy (AFT) enable specialty beds to facilitate pressure wound healing?

How does Air Fluidized Therapy (AFT) enable specialty beds to facilitate pressure wound healing?

Air Fluidized Therapy (AFT) is a type of specialty support surface used in healthcare settings, particularly for patients with pressure ulcers or wounds. AFT beds create a unique environment that promotes pressure redistribution and wound healing through the use of air and small, solid particles. Here's how AFT enables specialty beds to facilitate pressure wound healing:

1. Pressure Redistribution:

   • AFT beds distribute pressure evenly across the patient's body, reducing the concentration of pressure on specific areas. This helps to alleviate pressure on vulnerable skin areas, preventing the development or worsening of pressure ulcers.

2. Microclimate Control:

   • AFT beds control the microclimate around the patient's body. The flow of air through the fluidized particles helps to regulate temperature and moisture, creating an environment that is conducive to wound healing. This is particularly important for patients with moisture-associated skin damage or those at risk of developing pressure ulcers.

3. Immersion and Envelopment:

   • AFT beds allow patients to be immersed in a fluidized medium of small, solid particles (usually silicone beads or ceramic spheres). This immersion helps distribute pressure evenly and envelop the body contours, reducing shear forces that can contribute to tissue damage.

4. Reduction of Shear Forces:

   • Shear forces occur when different layers of tissue move against each other. AFT beds minimize shear forces by promoting a stable and supportive surface, reducing the risk of tissue damage and preventing further deterioration of existing wounds.

5. Enhanced Blood Flow:

   • AFT supports surfaces encourage better blood circulation. The fluidized particles and the dynamic nature of the support surface stimulate blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the wound site, which is essential for the healing process.

6. Prevention of Friction:

   • Friction between the patient's skin and the support surface can exacerbate pressure ulcers. AFT beds reduce friction by providing a low-friction environment, minimizing the likelihood of skin breakdown and promoting a more comfortable experience for the patient.

7. Therapeutic Movement:

   • AFT beds can be adjusted to provide intermittent motion or turning of the patient. This helps prevent stiffness, enhances circulation, and promotes healing by exposing different areas of the body to pressure relief.

8. Customizable Settings:

   • AFT beds are often adjustable to accommodate individual patient needs. Healthcare professionals can customize the level of immersion, pressure, and other settings to optimize the therapy for each patient.

In summary, Air Fluidized Therapy facilitates pressure wound healing by creating an optimal microclimate, redistributing pressure, minimizing shear forces, improving blood flow, and offering a customizable and supportive environment for patients with pressure ulcers or wounds. It's important to note that the use of AFT and other specialty support surfaces should be under the guidance and supervision of healthcare professionals based on the specific needs of each patient