Key findings

The SEM Scanner appears to be an innovative and promising technology to help reduce the burden of pressure ulcers (PUs) across NHS Scotland. However, there is a need for further development of the evidence in order to strengthen the manufacturer’s case. 

The results of the economic analysis suggest that the SEM Scanner may be a cost effective device for the prevention of PUs. However, owing to the limitations associated with the aforementioned product performance data underpinning the economic model, there remains uncertainty surrounding the net cost impact of the SEM Scanner.

There is variability both in PUs incidence reporting across NHS Scotland, and also in the standard of care currently applied in Scotland. 

What were we asked to look at?

We were asked to provide a high level overview of the SEM Scanner.

The SEM Scanner is intended to assist in the detection of pressure induced tissue damage. The scanner is a class IIa, hand-held, portable, tissue assessment device that analyses the skin’s underlying tissue to detect changes in SEM. SEM is stated to be a biophysical marker associated with localised oedema and to be indicative of pressure induced tissue damage.   

Why is this important?

Standard of care currently requires the identification of pressure ulcers using clinical judgement gained through skin assessment combined with an assessment of risk factors for pressure ulceration. However, there appears to be variation across NHS Scotland in terms of best practice for pressure ulcer risk assessment, which includes the application of visual inspection alongside risk assessment tools such as the Waterlow and Braden scales. More specifically, there are uncertainties across NHS Scotland relating to incomplete use of assessment tools and variation in the frequency of assessment

Referred by

Bruin Biometrics Europe Ltd