Sequential Compression Devices (SCDs) are medical tools designed to improve blood circulation, particularly in individuals with limited mobility. They prevent blood from pooling in the limbs, which can lead to various health complications. SCDs serve as an external support system for the body’s natural circulatory processes when a person cannot move sufficiently.
Understanding Their Function
SCDs use inflatable sleeves, typically wrapped around the legs or arms. A pump inflates and deflates these sleeves in a rhythmic, sequential manner. This applies external pressure to veins, mimicking natural muscle contractions during movement. As chambers inflate from the limb’s farthest point upwards, they gently squeeze blood from deep veins towards the heart. After inflation, sleeves deflate, allowing veins to refill before the next cycle.
Preventing Blood Clots
The primary application of SCDs is to prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot forming in a deep vein, most commonly in the legs. Immobility, often due to surgery or prolonged bed rest, increases DVT risk because blood can pool in the lower limbs, a condition known as stasis. By promoting regular blood flow and reducing this stasis, SCDs help decrease the chance of clot formation.
DVT can lead to serious complications if a clot breaks loose and travels through the bloodstream. A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a significant concern, occurring when a blood clot lodges in a lung artery, blocking blood flow and potentially causing severe damage or death. SCDs are valuable for patients unsuitable for blood-thinning medications, or they can be used with such medications for a comprehensive prevention strategy.
Broader Therapeutic Applications
Beyond preventing blood clots, SCDs offer additional benefits by enhancing overall circulation. They can help reduce swelling, also known as edema, by forcing excess fluid away from the extremities and back into circulation. SCDs are also used in the management of lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling due to impaired lymphatic drainage, by helping to move lymphatic fluid.
Improving blood flow to an affected area can also aid in wound healing, particularly for chronic venous stasis ulcers, by delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. The enhanced circulation provided by SCDs can also contribute to pain reduction and improved lymphatic and vascular flow.
Using an SCD: Practical Considerations
Proper use of an SCD involves selecting the correct sleeve size and ensuring a smooth, wrinkle-free fit around the limb. Healthcare providers typically ensure two fingers can fit between the sleeve and the patient’s leg, indicating an appropriate fit. Patients will feel a sensation of inflation and deflation as the device operates, which is a normal part of its function.
If the device alarms, it may indicate a fit issue or a problem with the tubing, and a healthcare provider should be notified. It is important to check the skin underneath the sleeves regularly for any signs of irritation, redness, or discomfort. Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they experience pain, skin changes, or if the device is not functioning as expected.