Sequential Compression Device

What is sequential compression device?

Sequential compression device is an inflatable cuff that you wear around your leg or foot. The device squeezes your blood vessels together to force old blood out of your legs and let in fresh blood.

To use the device, you lie still while the cuff inflates around your leg at a programmed rate.

You may need this device if your legs are swollen from poor circulation. You may also need it if you are on bed rest to prevent a blood clot from forming in your legs.

Blood clots in your legs can travel to your lungs and cause life-threatening problems. Your health care provider will decide when you should use the device, how often it will inflate, and how much pressure it will apply to your leg.

What are the risks of using this device?

Risks of using this device include:

  • Irritated or sore skin.
  • Injury to the nerve that supplies your lower legs, feet, and toes (peroneal nerve). If the device puts too much pressure on your legs, this nerve may temporarily stop working normally. If this happens, your ankle may feel numb or weak.
  • Developing compartment syndrome. This is a condition in which too much pressure on your leg makes it hard for blood to reach the muscles of the lower leg. This can result in injury to your leg muscles. The risk of developing this condition is low.

What are the benefits of using this device?

The main benefit of using this device is improved circulation in your legs. Using the device may:

  • Reduce swelling (edema) in your legs.
  • Improve healing if you have leg or foot ulcers from poor circulation.
  • Lower your risk of blood clots.
  • Help you begin walking and recovering sooner after surgery or bed rest.

What are some other ways to prevent blood clots?

A sequential compression device is often used with other methods to prevent blood clots in your legs. Other ways to prevent blood clots include:

  • Taking a blood-thinning medicine.
  • Wearing compression stockings.
  • Using your leg muscles and getting up to walk as soon as you can.

When should I contact my health care provider?

Seek medical care if:

  • You develop any pain or numbness in your leg.
  • You develop any redness or your skin breaks down where the device touches your skin.
  • Your device stops working.

Seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your leg becomes warm, red, or swollen.
  • You have severe pain in your leg.
  • You have chest pain.
  • You have trouble breathing.
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