Defender II - Manually Operated Seat Cushion System
Product Description
The Aquila Defender II is a two-zone, manually operated air cushion system that lets you apply minimal pressure where it is needed most, at the bony area of the posterior. The Defender II cushion provides excellent overall pressure relief, but most importantly, extremely low interface pressure at the areas most prone to developing pressure sores, the cheekbones (ischial) and tail bone (sacral) areas of the posterior.
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 multiple cell, two-zone cushion.
The Aquila Defender II pressure relief cushion is more than just a simple air cushion. This pressure relief cushion actually shows you how much air pressure is in each of the two zones of the cushion, lets you adjust pressure at any time, and alerts you of low cushion pressure with a visual and audio alert.
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) typically 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 simply inflated to a comfortable pressure and the secondary area to a lower pressure, even down to near zero, for maximum relief immediately under the boney prominences.
The cushion is made of soft, durable neoprene, and comes with a four way stretch, anti-microbial cover. The cover has a non-slip bottom and is machine washable and machine dryable.
The air cells are shaped to fit the contours of the body for comfort and support. Each air cell is also reinforced with internal air bladders for increased durability.
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 can support weights in excess of 400 pounds and bariatric sizes can be made.
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 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 in seconds.
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 most 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.
The Defender II is on the Veteran's Administration
GSA FSS government contract.
Warranty
The Defender II is covered by a limited one-year warranty.
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