Defender II - Manually Operated Seat Cushion System

Product Description

To prevent pressure sores, a key element is maintaining circulation to the tissue. Studies have shown that pressure of 32 mmHg or less will allow blood to circulate into compressed tissue.  Pressure mapping has proven that the interface pressure achieved with the Aquila Defender II is far better than 32 mmHg (see Defender II Pressure Map Sample).

System Design & Benefits

There are two components to the Defender II cushion system, the control module and the cushion.

The control module has an LED style pressure gauge so you know how much air is in the pad.

There is an inflation bulb attached to the controller so you can adjust the pad  anytime.

And, because it absolutely essential to know if your air cushion has a leak, the Defender II has an automatic low pressure alarm.

The Cushion

The pressure relief cushion is divided into two groups of air cells, the primary and secondary groups.  The secondary group (marked by X's in the photo at right) includes the cells located under the ischial and sacral area and the primary group includes all other cells. However, a different configuration can be made to address specific client needs.

Utilizing the two zone system, the primary area of the cushion is inflated to the desired level to lift and support while the secondary remains deflated to off load the ischials and sacral area.

The Defender II cushion shown is neoprene rubber and sizes 18 inch or larger can be made in neoprene.  We can however make any size pad size desired with waterproof foam exterior. The cushion includes a four way stretch, anti-microbial cover.  The cover has a non-slip bottom and is machine washable and machine dryable.

Because every Defender II cushion system is custom made, the cushion can be built to whatever size works best for the clients needs.  The Defender II has no weight limit.

Control Module

The control module is what makes the Aquila Defender II a system, rather than just another air cushion on the market.  The control module includes hand pump, pressure gauge and alarm system.   

A series of LED lights illuminate to correspond with the air pressure in the primary area of the cushion.  In this way they act as a pressure gauge so you will know exactly how much air pressure is in the primary area of the cushion. 

Adjusting the air pressure can be done at any time with the on-board hand pump.  Conditions such as changing temperature or altitude that would have other air cushions ballooning or bottoming out are not a problem for the Defender II since adjustments can be made instantly.  

Safety Features

One of the best features of the controller is the automatic low pressure warning system.  If the pressure in the primary section of the pad should become very low, a visual and audio alarm will alert you to the condition and you can immediately pump more air into the pad.  Each air cell also has a foam insert to prevent bottoming out in case of major damage to the cushion.  The cushion cover is made of anti-microbial fabric to inhibit bacterial growth.

Conversion to an Airpulse PK Automatic Wheelchair Cushion System

The Defender II manually operated cushion system was designed for clients who are at medium to low risk for pressure sores.  Should the client's situation change in the future to high risk, the Defender II can be converted at Aquila to an Airpulse PK automatic, alternating pressure cushion system.  The Airpulse PK was designed for those who currently have or are at high risk of pressure sores.  Credit for 100% of the Defender II purchase will be given toward the conversion to an Airpulse PK.  Ask the customer service department for details.

Availability

The Defender II cushion system is available through some Durable Medical Equipment Dealers, or you can contact Aquila directly for assistance and pricing.  The Defender II has a HCPCS code of E2624 and E2625. 

• E2624 - Skin Protection and Positioning Wheelchair Seat Cushion, Adjustable, width less than 22 inches, any depth.
• E2625 - Skin Protection and Positioning Wheelchair Seat Cushion, Adjustable, width greater than 22 inches, any depth.

Warranty

The Defender II is covered by a limited one-year warranty.