Work

Use of a Multilayer‐Structured Polyurethane Foam Protective Pad to Prevent Deformity and Promote Epithelialization in Buttock Pressure Ulcers: Two Adult Cases With Prolonged Bed Rest

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Buttock pressure ulcers are highly susceptible to pressure, shear, moisture, and contamination, frequently resulting in delayed healing. Conventional dressings are often easily displaced in this region, reducing their intended effect. To prevent wound deformation and maintain a flat surface, a multilayer-structured polyurethane foam protective pad (ALLEVYN LIFE, Smith & Nephew), typically used for prevention, was applied alongside local treatment. Two male patients demonstrated the effectiveness of this adjunctive treatment. The first, a 65-year-old man with a chronic National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel Stage II pressure ulcer that had persisted for 2 months, achieved near-complete epithelialization by day 6 after hospital admission and pad application. The second, a 52-year-old man with chronic gluteal friction, developed an acute, noninfected Stage II ulcer during postoperative bed rest. Using the pad to reduce external pressure and shear forces markedly accelerated epithelialization by day 5. The pad's effectiveness is attributed to its multilayer design with varying firmness, which provides thickness and cushioning for pressure redistribution. This structure absorbs shear stress, reducing direct skin damage. By preventing wound deformation, minimizing friction, and maintaining a stable wound surface, the polyurethane foam dressing promotes rapid epithelialization. This adjunctive approach is highly effective once bowel management is established, though it is strictly contraindicated for infected wounds. These cases suggest that the use of a multilayer polyurethane foam dressing may be a simple and effective strategy for promoting healing of shallow buttock pressure ulcers.

Source: Clinical Case Reports

DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.73844

Authors: Etsuko Mamada, Shown Tokoro, Ayano Fujiyoshi‐Ito, Yasuko Ogata, Kentaro Tanaka, Emiko Asaka

Institutions: Institute of Science Tokyo Hospital, Dokkyo Medical University, Institute of Science Tokyo, Japanese Nursing Association

Language: English

Topic: Pressure Ulcer Prevention and Management

Subfield: Dermatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,820