Historically, pressure injury etiology has revolved around ischemic changes in the skin, and soft tissue.  However, recent evidence has demonstrated that tissue deformation of the skin and soft tissue has earlier implications in pressure injury development versus just ischemia alone. 

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Currently there are various levels of clinical knowledge and experience when it comes to understanding pressure injury etiology and appropriate management strategies.  Unfortunately, most healthcare practitioners do not understand the pathophysiology of pressure injuries and the extrinsic and intrinsic risks, which need to be correctly managed for successful outcomes.

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This conference will offer a diverse range of interactive and educational sessions exploring current best evidence of pressure injury pathophysiology, with a focus on the new understanding of the significant role tissue deformation plays in the development of pressure injuries.  

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Discussions will revolve around the differences in the development of a superficial pressure injury versus a suspected deep tissue injury. This program will also review deep tissue deformation cause and effect and the latest scientific analysis tool, Finite Element Modeling, to examine how various technologies interact with the seated body to minimize the risk for pressure injuries.  

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We will cover the Pan Pacific Clinical Guidelines for Prevention and Management of Pressure Injury, the role of seating support surfaces, discuss case studies and hear about pressure injury prevention from a wheelchair user`s perspective.