Intermittent pneumatic compression

Intermittent pneumatic compression is a technique to prevent thrombosis in bedridden patients. It uses an inflatable device that squeezes the calf when it inflates, preventing pools of blood forming behind the valves in the veins, thus mimicking the effects of walking.

The aim of the functional principle of the gradient intermittent compression is not just the mere re-absorption of ultra-filtration into the venous system, but to carry absorbed protein into the lymphatic system. The gradient pressure causes a movement from distal to proximal regions in the intercellular space, with healty vessels for absorption. The venous and lymphatic drainage is considerably improved. In the leg, the calf muscle pump is passively simulated. The increase of the fluid speed of the venous blood also has an anti-thrombotic effect. Also an increase in the fibrolynitic activity in the blood and venous septum, a reduction in the haematocrit and an increase in the coagulation factor VIII as well as an increase of anti-coagulatory protein C have been proven after application of intermittent pneumatic compression. In case of chronic venous insufficiency, the cutaneous microcirculation is improved.

Indications for intermittent pneumatic compression are the strongly developed, chronic venous insufficiency and lymph respectively lipoedema. Peri- and post-operative thrombosis prophylaxis is another important area of application of this therapy method. Various other illnesses, accompanied by oedematous swelling of extremities, can also be treated with intermittent pneumatic compression.

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