A novel intermittent mechanical compression device for stasis prevention in the lower limbs during limited mobility situations

IntroductionIntermittent pneumatic mechanical compression is commonly applied to obviate venous stasis in patients with increased risk of thromboembolism. Aviafit is a small battery-operated intermittent compression device using a patented mechanical, non-pneumatic technology. Our objective was to examine its ability to prevent venous stasis.Materials and methodsDoppler ultrasonography was used to determine venous hemodynamics of 22 healthy volunteers in both legs, before applying the Aviafit to one randomly selected leg, upon device activation and after 30 min. Each measurement provided values for peak flow velocity (PFV) and total volume flow (TVF).ResultsThe PFV values were significantly higher in the treated leg upon activation of the Aviafit and at 30 min, compared to the baseline value and to the PFV of the untreated leg at the corresponding time points (p < 0.001 for each). The TVF increased in the treated leg from baseline of 48 ml/min to 56 ml/min at T0, and then gradually decreased, similar to the untreated leg. At T30, 64% of the treated legs had a higher TVF than their untreated counterparts.ConclusionsThe lightweight, battery-operated and user-friendly Aviafit can provide the same hemodynamic benefits as larger conventional intermittent pneumatic compression devices. Its potential advantages for prophylaxis of thromboembolism and increased compliance in rehabilitation and homecare, and for use during long periods of immobility such as during flights, are evident.