2025-11-10
Starfish of Sweden Takes on Pressure Injuries with Groundbreaking Swedish Technology
The medtech company Starfish of Sweden aims to set a new standard in the prevention of pressure injuries. Recently relocated to Medeon Science Park, the company is now taking its first steps toward the market with a patented innovation that allows the body to “float” on the surface. With its inventive design, the company hopes to reduce suffering and save enormous healthcare costs.
Globally, pressure injuries cost healthcare systems more than USD 500 billion annually. Despite this, mattresses and seat cushions that fail to prevent such injuries are still widely used.
The Body Floats Freely
At the core of Starfish’s innovation is a patented rubber mat that can be integrated into, for example, mattresses, wheelchair cushions, or office chairs. It is designed so that only 20 percent of the body’s surface is in contact with the support, while the remaining 80 percent “floats” freely.
“We focus on the underlying causes of why pressure injuries occur. At the same time, we can increase comfort and even concentration levels for people who sit for long periods,” says Micael Gustafsson, CEO of Starfish of Sweden.
Starfish of Sweden has conducted a scientific study together with Lund University of Technology, where the company’s technology clearly outperformed existing products. The results showed significantly more stable microcirculation, higher oxygenation, and almost no temperature increase compared with conventional solutions.
Multiple Tests and Collaborations Underway
In recent months, Starfish has focused on getting its products into the hands of users for long-term testing. One prototype is already being used in a wheelchair cushion by a test user who may also become a future collaborator. At the same time, testing is underway with Soeco Kontorsmöbler in Dalby for use in office chairs, and discussions are ongoing with a European subcontractor in the automotive industry.
“There’s a lot of interest. When I attended investor meetings in the U.S., the engagement was remarkable. We also see opportunities in vehicles, aviation, trains, and even gaming chairs,” says Micael Gustafsson.
The business model is inspired by a well-known brand.
“We compare ourselves to Gore-Tex: customers will be able to license our concept and purchase the mat directly from us to integrate into their own products,” he continues.
To take the next step, Starfish plans to raise new capital, primarily to launch wheelchair cushions as its first product on the market.
Smart Sensors and AI
The company’s patent already allows for the development of more advanced mattresses and cushions.
“We want to enhance the concept by, for example, embedding sensors in the rubber mat that can warn of an increased risk of pressure injury. We’re exploring solutions that use just a few sensors in a mattress, combined with an AI model that interprets the data and estimates risk levels.”
Medeon – The Right Environment for the Next Phase
Starfish of Sweden recently moved into Medeon Science Park to bring together its team and development workshop, and to be close to other medtech companies with production experience.
“We’ve been operating lean and spread out, but Medeon provides the right environment for our next phase. All our team members live in Malmö. I’ve already attended one of Medeon’s CEO lunches, which was very valuable, and I look forward to more networking opportunities. The Medeon team is helpful and generous in sharing their network – not least Medeon’s CEO, Malin Bornschein, who is deeply committed to supporting the companies here,” concludes Micael Gustafsson.
