What is an air-fluidized bed?

An air-fluidized bed is a medical device that uses warm air under pressure to set small ceramic beads in motion, which then simulates the movement of fluid. When a patient is in the bed, body weight is evenly distributed over a large surface area, which creates a sensation of floating.

This type of bed is specially designed for use by patients with or at risk for posterior pressure ulcers, or with posterior burns, grafts or donor areas. The pressure against the skin surface is less than the capillary refilling. The improved capillary blood flow to the skin speeds the growth of granulation tissue.