![]() (2005) undertook a meta-analysis analyzing the efficacy of intermittent pneumatic compression devices in preventing DVT.2 They included 15 studies, with a total of 2270 patients. The efficacy of SCD's has been proven by several clinical trials. They also stimulate the release of anti-thrombotic factors, which inhibit activated factor VII, and nitric oxide from the vascular endothelium. ![]() This aids in increasing the velocity of venous blood flow in the lower limbs, which reduces venous stasis. SCD's work by squeezing the blood from the limb and displacing it proximally. Sequential compression devices or SCD’s can apply pressure from the calf to the thigh region. Current devices have multiple air chambers that sequentially inflate in a rapid and graduated manner, therefore improving the hemodynamic response. The early generation pneumatic compression devices consisted of a single air chamber that when inflated, provided low-pressure compression of the limb. THE IMPACT OF SEQUENTIAL COMPRESSION DEVICES ![]() Studies estimate that in the absence of DVT prophylaxis, the incidence of DVT can be as high as 50% to 88% after orthopedic procedures like hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty.1 It is therefore imperative that steps are taken for the prevention of DVT in this group of patients. One of the greatest risk factors for DVT is prolonged surgery and immobilization, which is often seen in the postoperative period following orthopedic surgery. There are several risk factors for the development of DVT, including increased age, obesity, and malignancy. A DVT occurs when these mechanisms are defective, leading to stasis of blood flow in the lower limbs. ![]() Normally, blood from the lower limbs is sent back to the heart by muscle contractions and one-way valve systems. A detachment of the thrombus may lead to fatal complications, such as a pulmonary embolism. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) refers to the formation of a clot in one of the deep veins of the legs. ![]()
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