Abstract
Objectives Examine the effectiveness of an advanced pneumatic compression device (APCD) in reducing limb volume (LV), and to evaluate clinician and patient-reported outcomes. Design Device registry study. Materials and methods Data were collected prospectively for 196 lower extremity lymphedema patients prescribed an APCD. Baseline and post-treatment LVs were calculated and clinical outcomes (skin changes, pain, and function) were assessed. Patient-reported outcomes and satisfaction utilizing a pre- and post-treatment survey were also evaluated. Results 90% of APCD-treated patients experienced a significant reduction in LV with 35% enjoying a reduction >10%. Mean LV reduction was 1,150 mL or 8% (p <.0001). Greater baseline LV and BMI were strong predictors of LV reduction (p <.0001). Clinician assessment indicated that the majority of patients experienced improvement in skin fibrosis and function. Patient-reported outcomes showed a significant increase in ability to control lymphedema through APCD treatment, with an increase in function and a reduction in the interference of pain. 66% were "very satisfied" with the APCD treatment. Conclusion APCD use is associated with consistent reductions in LV, with favorable patient-reported outcomes. Results demonstrate that reduction in LV and pain, combined with functional improvement and patient satisfaction can be achieved, providing tangible benefit for lower extremity patients.
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 480-487 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery |
Volume | 46 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Oct 2013 |
Keywords
- Lymphedema
- Pneumatic compression device
- Quality of life