|
|
| Products & Devices to help you live comfortably |
|
Compression Therapy
Lymphatic and venous disorders can be managed by a variety of therapy modalities. In all cases, the therapy involves applying some form of compression to the affected extremity or affected lymph/venous system. This kind of therapy modality is generally referred to as compression therapy.
BioHorizon specializes in prescription medical products and devices that are designed to apply compression in a controlled fashion, for the treatment of both lymphatic and venous disorders. These products and devices are described in the following categories:
Pneumatic Compression Devices
Pneumatic compression devices have been regularly used in clinics and hospitals across the United States for the past twenty-five years for the treatment of venous and lymphatic disorders and for the prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Configured in a variety of forms, these systems are always composed of a compressor and extremity appliances. The compartments in the extremity appliance are inflated sequentially via the compressor, with declining pressures distal to proximal in gradient systems, causing the lymphatic fluid or blood to circulate out of the affected limb, thereby reducing swelling and preventing venous stasis.
This therapy simulates the normal circulatory action through the use of external pressure, counteracting the underlying pathology of chronic lymphatic and venous disease. Physicians have long prescribed pneumatic compression devices as treatment for venous and lymphatic disorders that have resisted management by less extensive therapies such as elastic compression and elevation.
This treatment enjoys great success when used correctly. In the case of lymphatic disorders, such as secondary and primary lymphedema, a certified lymphedema therapist should be consulted in addition to a medical doctor.
Specialty Compression Garments
Specialty lymphedema garments bring enhanced compression technology to the aid of patients with primary and secondary lymphedema.
Designed to improve upon multi-layer wraps that are conventionally prescribed as part of a normal course of manual lymph drainage, these products have demonstrated significant improvemendue to their comfort and ease of use.
Generally designed as a two-part system, these products are composed of an inner compression pad and an external compression binder. The inner component is a form filled pad or form insert tailored in the shape of the affected extremity, gently sliding over it snugly. The outer binder adds controlled compression and can take the form of short stretch bandaging or an outer appliance with adjustable Velcro closures.
Specialty lymphedema garments are an excellent option for patients who utilize multi-layer bandaging as a component of their therapy. While the conventional bandages and wraps can be very useful, they do have limitations. Most importantly, bandages and wraps are often difficult to apply properly and consistently, and if not applied correctly, they can obstruct lymphatic flow.
Specialty lymphedema garments provide a consistent, snug fit, eliminating the need of multi-layer bandaging and are quickly and easily applied, significantly increasing compliance.
Non-Elastic Compression Garments
Non-elastic compression garments are designed to resist any distention during use. They will not stretch as do elastic compression garments.
CircAid® Leggings have become the industry standard in non-elastic compression garments. They are a highly designed series of interlocking, non-elastic bands made of Velcro® brand hook and loop fasteners. They are adjustable so patients can sustain proper levels of compression, even when limb-size changes or during physical activity.
Elastic Compression Garments
Elastic compression garments are the means to manage tissue edema and extremity swelling associated with lymphatic and venous disorders.
In the case of venous disorders, the transport of de-oxygenated blood from the distal legs to the heart is inadequate. In the case of lymphatic disorders, obstructed or inadequate lymph flow results in an imbalance of fluid movement across cell membranes, leading to an accumulation of lymph fluid, limb swelling. In both cases, elastic compression garments compress the entire extremity, and in turn compress the veins within the leg(s) or the lymph system within the effected extremity. This restores equilibrium between the supply and drainage of the tissues. The goal of the treatment is to increase adequate fluid transport, reduce swelling, and in the process, help the patient manage their condition.
|
|
|
|
