Sequential Compression Devices (SCD)
Posted by Admin in Sequential compression device on February 13, 2012
What is a Sequential Compression Device?
A Sequential compression device , or SCD, is a method of external vascular therapy that uses pneumatic compression to minimize arterial complications such as the development of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Peripheral Edema (blood and fluid pooling) in the legs and feet.
A sequential compression device is generally administered to post-op patients who are bed-ridden or anyone who is non-ambulatory or immobile for long periods of time.
Types of sequential air devices:
There are two* types of sequential compression devices: A hospital-grade electric pump which is available to both hospitals and for home use and battery powered portable SCDs for home use only.
Hospital-grade pneumatic sequential compression devices can contain up to ten inner chambers whereas most home units, both stand alone and portable will typically contain four to eight, depending on the brand and model.
A portable scd unit functions using the same principle as an electric pumping unit but delivers considerably less pressure. It can be in the form of a short wrap, sleeve or a boot.
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*Note: There is manual Lymphedema Foot Pump device that slips over the foot. When pumped it delivers sequential compression to directly stimulate the venous plantar plexus (large vein located on the bottom of the foot) to increase blood circulation in non-ambulatory or bed-ridden patients, i.e., it simulates the motion of blood produced during walking.
How does a Sequential compression device work?
A lymphedema compression sleeve is placed around the legs and/or feet. Pulsated air is then fed by the pneumatic compression pump through a tube, or series of tubes, that is connected to a compression sleeve with inner pockets that inflate and deflate the sleeve’s chambers in sequence which delivers an intermittent massaging effect to the leg’s vascular system and muscle groups
A SCD is timed to compress the leg after each heartbeat, every other heartbeat or every third heartbeat, and is then at rest during moments of heart contraction and arterial inflow into the leg.
This allows the heart to empty its blood easier thus freeing it from having to work to return blood to the heart and decreasing the work of the heart contraction.
Common uses for arm and leg Lymphedema Sequential Compression Devices
- Promotes good circulation.
- Relaxes tense muscles.
- Stimulates muscles to keep you moving after long periods of inactivity.
- Eases stiffness.
- Relieves fatigue and muscle leg pains.
- Treating infected ulcerated legs
- Reduce swelling caused by lymphedema
- Preventing chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)
- Preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Preventing venous ulcers
- Helping ambulatory, as well as non-ambulatory people, soothe sore muscles.
- Compression therapy for treatment lymphatic and venous disorders
Common terms for Sequential Compression Devices
A SCD may be referred to using the following various terms, to name but a few, however, all perform similarly in function:
- Lympha Press
- pneumatic sequential-compression boots
- Sequential Gradient Pump
- Lymphedema Pump
- Foot Pump
- Intermittent Pneumatic Compression System
- Air compression leg wrap
- Hospital compression boot
Tips for selecting a Sequential Compression Device
- Rely on your doctor’s recommendations on what type of sequential compression device you should purchase which may include one of several popular brands (see below). Such devices can be somewhat complicated to operate if you’re new to using them and may require assistance.
It’s tempting to purchase an off-name brand to save a few dollars but if your doctor or health care physician who is familiar with your specific health situation makes a recommendation for a tested product for your situation, it’s advisable to follow his/her advice . - Don’t purchase a used or refurbished model – you don’t know what you’re getting! Going with a used model could put your health at risk if it doesn’t work properly. The investment you make in a compression pump machine will be one of the most important investments you make because it will help you live a longer and healthier life, allowing you to succeed at work and home and spend more time with family and friends. Unauthorized dealers may purchase your sequential compression device from a middleman. They may not work properly and you will never know. In addition, you may pay a significant amount of money and not have warranty coverage. The risk isn’t worth it.
- Avoid websites that offer cheaper brands of lymphedema products. Instead look for a website that offers machines with warranties from the quality manufacturers and offers free customer care and support. When you’re buying equipment that costs you or your insurance company hundreds to thousands of dollars you deserve access to customer support if you need it.
- Look for brands recommended by recognizable organizations, such as the American Diabetes Association (ADA). If you’re unsure about a specific brand contact the manufacturer directly or one of their distributors for information about their product offerings, warranties, and customer service so you can compare.
Sequential Compression Devices are sold to the consumer under a variety of terms, e.g., SCD*-boots, Portable Sequential Compression Device, Compression-Boot for Edema, Sequential Compression-Boot, Leg Compression Device, Lymphedema Pump, and Post-Surgical Anti-clot Leg Device.
Popular Sequential Compression Device Unit brand names
- Jobst 7500
- Kendall 5325, 6325
- Kendall AV Impulse 5000
- Kendall AV Impulse 6060
- NuTech Plexipulse
- Huntleigh
- DVTCare
- Presssion 3-Chamber Sequential Compression Pump
- Presssion 6-Chamber Sequential Compression Pump
- PlexiPulse Foot Compression Therapy (Doctor’s prescription required)
- System 7500 Sequential Extremity Pump
- LYMPHA PRESS®
- LYMPHA PRESS MINI®
Popular stand alone and portable Sequential Compression boots and leg messager devices
Auto-Edema-Reduction-boot
This device typically includes a cold pack option to provide cold therapy as well as compression to the leg to treat injuries related to sports or rigorous activities. Some designs may include a grip sole to enable the user to walk while wearing the boot. This type of device can treat the entire lower leg and foot. Combined with the PresSsion sequential compression pump, it achieves the best of active and passive compression therapies.
The C-boot is not battery powered nor does it have external pumps, i.e. it is completely portable and depends on movement from your own body to generate power. It has three chambers that inflate using a mini-compressor that starts at the ankle and works upward and includes a section for the foot, which does not inflate.
The C-Boot, often referred to as a pneumatic sequential-compression boot, is recommended for the treatment of vascular conditions such as leg ulcers, chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and stasis dermatitis, lymphedema, and for the prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
Verseo Cordless Air Pressure Leg Massager - The Verseo Cordless Battery Powered Leg Massager is a nice little compact leg wrap that is designed to improve circulation and counteract conditions that contribute to deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and embolism, serious blood clot condition and is approved by the FDA to improve blood circulation for those who must sit for extended periods of time.
Because there are no bulky tubes and external pump the Verseo Leg Massager can be worn anywhere; just wrap it around your arm or leg, turn it on and let the gentle automatic inflation and deflation cycles massage away tension, stress and pain.
It works by simulating the expansion and contraction of the calf muscles. The Verseo Cordless Leg Massager provides the same type of pressure as hospital compression boots, at a fraction of the time, cost, and inconvenience.
The massager delivers 70-130 mmHg of pressure, compared to the 15-20 mmHg delivered by compression stockings. It features 15-minute program and automatic modes, artificial-intelligence air pressure sensor, and three intensity settings. Fits calves and biceps up to 20″ in diameter. Requires two AA batteries (not included) that provide up to five hours of use. 4 1/2″ L x 2 1/2″ W x 2 1/2″ D.
Revitaleg Portable Pneumatic Compression Leg-Massager – RevitaLeg is an intermittent pneumatic compression massage device that helps improve circulation and reduces swelling caused by edema in the legs and feet for people who are inactive for long periods of time.
The RevitaLeg wraps around the leg and similar to an electric Sequential compression device pump it delivers a massaging action by the inflating and deflating of its cuff. The squeezing of the muscles acts as a pump to help improve circulation in the lower leg and foot.
Huntleigh Gradient Segmental Compression System Garment – This type of device is intended to treat lymphedema and venous insufficiency by delivering gradient segmental compression to the legs (also the arms).
It is available in a variety of sizes and is designed to prevent pinching and chafing.
The Huntleigh Gradient Segmental Compression System Garment comes with full-length zippers for easy application and removing (Console garments are sold as 1 garment per package, not sold in pairs.)
A bilateral connector is not needed to use two garments. The Huntleigh Gradient Segmental Compression System Garment is capable of providing arm and leg compression.
The measurement guidelines are simple one however the measurement will need to be done with some assistance.
The guidelines are as follows – Arm Length: Measure underarm to fingertips. Leg Length: Measure inseam thigh to heel.
Special Features:
- Increases venous and lymphatic flow
- Augments extracellular fluid drinage
- Reduces swelling and enhances wound healing
- Considerable reduction in ulcer size when used as an adjunct to the treatment of leg ulcers
- Features maximum comfort (soft and pliable)
- Washable
- Lightweight, portable pump features pressure gauge, pressure regulator dial, low pressure alert light, illuminated on/off switch, and hanging strap
- Ideal for home use
Specifications:
Power: 110-130v, 60Hz, 14W
Size: 10.5 x 3.5 x 4.5 inches
Weight: 3.75 pounds
Pressure Range: 30-70 mmHg
Cycle Time: Inflation 50 seconds, Deflation 70 seconds
DVTCare™
The “DVTCare” is portable (the pump weighs less than 1 lb.), has a battery that lasts up to 17 hrs on one leg or 8 hrs. on both (can be fully recharged in approx. 2.5 hrs.), and it can still be worn while it’s being recharged.
In conclusion:
There are a variety of Sequential Compression Devices (SCD) available to the consumer that promote blood and fluid flow to the leg muscles and limit the development of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Peripheral Edema in immobile patients. Choose one wisely.
