Importance

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Abstract

A support system that reduces the likelihood of breakdown of human skin, and hence formation of decubitus ulcers, is disclosed. The system comprises two sheets of flexible material bonded together to provide a plurality of separate cells that are capable of being alternately and repeatedly inflated and deflated by means of a fluid contained in the cells. The flexible material is impermeable to the fluid. The cells are of a size and shape and with an intercellular spacing such that in at least one of the width and length of the system, the distance between centers of adjacent inflated cells is less than the human two-point discrimination threshold and the support system is capable of supporting a human body with bottoming out either of or between the inflated cells. In particular embodiments, the support system is in the form of a mattress. The support system may be used with persons who are confined to bed, wheelchairs or the like for periods of time or who are otherwise fully or partially immobilized, including for therapeutic reasons.

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First Claim