Compression pumps were at one time a standard of treatment for lymphedema. These older types referred to simply as compression pumps consist of an inflatable garment for the arm, leg, or foot and an electrical pneumatic pump that fills the garment with compressed air. The garment is intermittently inflated and deflated with cycle times and pressures that vary between devices.

These antiquated devices have been replaced by intermittent/ sequential pumps which consist of numerous chambers that inflate one at a time while moving up the arm or leg. Due to complications such as genital lymphedema and possible further damage to existing superficial lymphatics, many patients and medical professionals are no longer in favor of using compression pumps to treat lymphedema.

Compresion Pumps for Venous Insufficiency

Chronic Venous Insuficiency (CVI) is a common condition. The symptoms most frequently experienced are pain and heaviness. The pain is described as aching throughout the leg. The condition is usually caused by abnormalities of the venious wall and valves that lead to obstruction or blockage of blood flow in the veins. This condition can also be treated with compression pump therapy and we can help you get the equipment you need. Contact us for more details about this condition.

Today, however, there is a new generation of compression devices coming in to the market that offer the possibilities of a safe and effective addition to our treatment arsenal.

 

The question about compression pumps is not whether they are effective in the movement of fluid. This has been clearly demonstrated and without a doubt they are extremely effective. The central problems are the possible complications.

The clinically demonstrated complications as mentioned above are (1) genital lymphedema because devices have not cleared the abdominal lymphatics before use of the pump and (2) damage to the superficial lymphatics. It is also my personal opinion that the use of pneumatic compression devices must not be marketed as a replacement for manual decongestive therapy by a certified lymphedema therapist or for a substitution in the use of compression bandaging… Rather, it should be used as adjunct for maintenance and should be included in the overall patient self-care program.

It is also important to understand the difference between treatment for arm lymphedema versus leg lymphedema. It is my utmost desire to provide important and independent information for patients as they decide whether or not to use a compression device.

Sharon Lee Saunders

(936) 443-3349

E-mail me here

Authorized Bio Compressions Sales Representative

Serving the Houston, Texas area and approximately 100 mile radius