An electrical engineer, Dr. Robert H. Graebe, designed the Roho cushion. It is intended to work to relieve pressure under bony prominences, such as the tailbone. Pressure sores are common in individuals with weakened immune systems, who have difficulty with weight shifting, poor circulation, and decreased sensation commonly caused by spinal cord injury.
Construction
The Roho is a made with a series of air filled tubes configured to the size of a wheelchair seat sling. It can be ordered specifically to the dimensions of the user. The cushion may have a high profile or low profile tube, with the low profile tubes creating a lower seat height module than the high profile. Roho cushions are equipped with a valve through which air is pumped to the desired level to provide maximum pressure reduction under bony prominences. Each cushion comes with a fabric cover, pump, patch kit and detailed instructions.
Roho Cushions and Pressure Relief
One of the most prominent areas for pressure sores is the tailbone, or coccyx. The weight of the user's entire spinal column/trunk pushes down onto this area when seated. If the client is on a solid hard surface the tailbone pushes against that surface. This pressure keeps blood from flowing easily between the skin and tissues surrounding the tailbone. With lack of blood flow, increased heat and moisture, the skin integrity decreases, and sores begin with a reddened area, and then an open sore with severe pain develops. The Roho cushion eliminates this problem by providing a layer of air between the tailbone and any hard surface. This reduces the pressure, increases blood flow, decreases heat build-up and, therefore, reduces the probability of sores and pain.
Selecting and Adjusting the Roho Cushion
A skilled medical supplier can determine the most effective Roho cushion for the client. Taking a detailed history and using the Xsensor pressure mapping system can accomplish this. The Xsensor provides immediate feedback as to the exact location of pressure. By placing the client on a Roho cushion with the Xsensor pressure mapper, and adjusting the air pressure within the Roho, the supplier can provide maximum pressure reduction. Clients can try different models of Roho cushions to determine which one works best. The supplier can also instruct the client as to the specific level of inflation that is best for his needs.
Models of Roho Cushions
Several models of Roho cushions are available to the consumer, which include the high profile, low profile, single compartment, dual compartment, Quadtro, Hybrid, Enhancer, Spirit, Harmony, AirLite and Mosaic. The company will also customize a seat module to meet a customer's specific needs.
Considerations
As an air floatation cushion, punctures can occur in the Roho. While it comes with a protective cover and patch kit, the user must be cognizant of potential leaks and should check air levels regularly. If a client has decreased sensation and cannot feel a change in air pressure, this is especially important. Since the Roho is designed to reduce pressure between the user and the seat's surface, the client should not put any additional padding on top of the cushion and ensure that clothing is free from thick seams, heavy pockets, and dense synthetic fabrics. Finally, the client should not over-fill the cushion, since this mimics the effect of sitting on a beach ball, making him more unstable and increasing, rather than decreasing pressure.
