Span America : The Science Behind the Geo-Matt Design

The Science Behind the Geo-Matt Design

This exclusive support surface design was developed by Span-America in the late 1980s in conjunction with Dr. Thomas Krouskop of the Baylor School of Medicine. Computer-guided equipment is used to cut foam into a geometric pattern of supportive cubes that are undercut with an open channel.

Unlike flat or convoluted ("eggcrate") foam, these individual cubes allow the surface to conform to the body and accommodate bony prominences, redistributing pressure across the support surface. This minimizes the pulling of the skin and tissue over bony prominences, thereby offsetting the harmful effects of shearing forces.

The Ring of Air helps to disperse heat and moisture away from the body and out into the atmosphere. The channel also assists in pressure management by providing, in effect, a layer of air between two layers of foam to enhance conformance of the foam to the body.

Does it work? In a two-year independent study*, 83 patients at risk for, or with, pressure ulcers were randomized to either the Geo-Matt or an air-suspension bed. Results: an analysis of covariance revealed no statistically significant difference in the prevention or healing of any stage pressure ulcer with respect to type of support surface used.

Based on its clinical efficacy as an overlay surface, Span-America has incorporated the design into the surface of the majority of its mattress, seat cushion, and patient positioning products.

*Day A, Leonard F. Seeking quality care for patients with pressure ulcers. Decubitus 1993 Jan; 6(1):32-43.

Span-America does not sell direct to facilities or end-users; we work through our network of dealers and distributors.
Please have a Span-America representative contact me about carrying your products. Please send me more information as specified below: [ List products of interest or your question or request ]
Your Name
Company	Title/Position

Address
City/State/Zip
Your Phone Number	E-mail

Answer Simple Math Problem $authcode$

Span-America does not sell direct to facilities or end-users; we work through our network of dealers and distributors. You may want to have a dealer of your choice contact us about acquiring a product for you.
Please have a Span-America representative contact me about finding a dealer or supplier in my area Please send me more information as specified below: [ List products of interest or your question or request ]
Your Name
Address
City/State/Zip
Your Phone Number	E-mail

Answer Simple Math Problem $authcode$

Please send me more information as specified below: [ List products of interest or your question or request ]
Your Name
Facility	Practice Specialty

Part of chain? Please specify
Address
City/State/Zip
Your Phone Number	E-mail

Answer Simple Math Problem $authcode$