Novel Pumps Treat Venous Insufficiency and Lymphedema

The CircuFlow 5100 and 5200 Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC) sequential pumps apply gradient pressure to mimic the lymphatic system, moving lymphatic fluid in the correct physiological direction. Patients first wear four-chambered sleeves that surround the infected area; the CircuFlow devices then pump and release air into and out of the sleeves' chambers to stimulate circulation and keep fluid from building up. Adjustable pressure control with a locking feature prevents unintended changes to the prescribed distal pressure setting, and an automatic deflation feature uses a vacuum to deflate the sleeves in two to five minutes after therapy is administered.

Other key features include a quiet, wave-like gradient-sequential inflation/deflation cycle provides patient with comfortable massage-like therapy, and a timer mechanism that provides options for the automatic shut-off of the system upon completion. Specially designed quick-release hose connectors allow for easy removal of the garments for cleaning as needed. The CircuFlow 5100 and 5200 models have different aesthetic and user features, including digital and mechanical controls, chamber-based gradient pressure adjustments, and screen displays. The 5200 can also operate in two modes: a gradient mode in which a maximum pressure and pressure gradient are administered, and a pressure mode in which each chamber's pressure can be set individually. Both devices are products of Devon Medical Products (King of Prussia, PA, USA), and have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

"Daily pneumatic, sequential compression using devices like the CircuFlow has proven to help treat lymphedema and venous insufficiency by stimulating the correct flow of fluid,” said John Bennett, M.D., CEO of Devon Medical Products. "The CircuFlow is the latest medical device in our product line, and we are proud to offer patients another quality device that can improve their quality of living.”

Lymphedema occurs when the lymph system is damaged or blocked; lymphatic fluid builds up in soft body tissues and causes swelling most commonly in the arm or leg, and occasionally in other parts of the body. Primary lymphedema can develop when lymphatic vessels are missing or impaired. Secondary lymphedema can be caused by cancer and cancer treatment surgeries that damage lymph vessels or require the removal of lymph nodes, such as with breast, prostate or testicular, head and neck, bladder, or colon cancers.

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