Guide to pumps
A review and guide to use of lymphoedema compression pumps
A description of compression pumps for lymphoedema
Lymphoedema compression 'pumps' are mechanical compression devices. They are designed to externally exert pressure on a lymphoedema affected limb. This can assist and help evacuate excess fluid to reduce swelling.
Some of these compressive devices have many chambers that operate sequentially to squeeze and apply external pressure on a limb to evacuate excess fluid. Other simpler devices just squeeze part of the limb, or the limb as a whole, to exert pressure externally for fluid evacuation.
Pumps and compression; There is a difference between a pump ordinarily used to move fluids (like a water pump) and a compressive device used in lymphoedema therapy.
A conventional (water) pump by its action creates a partial vacuum at the point of inlet. This draws other fluid from a reseviour (the area being drained) into the space or vacuum created at the pump inlet. Air then filters into the space (reseviour) the fluids were moved from, and the fluid drawn into the partial vacuum is displaced through the outlet valve of the pump to be discharged at the intended destination.
A compression device used in lymphoedema therapy exerts external pressure on a limb to push the fluid out of the limb by regulated pressure or force.
There is quite a difference to the meaning of pump and mechanical compression device.
Precautions
Care must be taken with the amount of pressure or force applied to a lymphoedema affected limb. Too much force can damage the initial and collecting lymphatic system.
Always follow the manufacturers instruction for mechanical (pump) compression devices. Do not exceed their recommended directions for use, and always prepare lines of additional drainage away from the affected area by lymphatic drainage massage before using a mechancial compressive device.
Who uses mechanical compression devices ? (Pumps)
An introduction to who uses them; people with
lymphoedema swelling and oedema use compression devices on the affected
limb.
An explanation of when mechanical compressive pump devices are used.
Mechanical compression devices (pumps) are used on a continuing and regular basis. The frequency of application may be daily or less often, and treatment time may only be for a few minutes each session. Settings are dependent on the manufacturers instruction and your doctors recommendation.
In a best practice situation a component of lymphatic drainage massage is performed prior to compressive (pump) therapy. This creates a space for fluid moved from the affected area to go to.
A review of possible complications;
The biggest complication with mechanical compressive devices (pumps) is;
- lack of adequate preparation by the recipient in unaffected areas (lymphatic drainage massage) prior to use. This can lead to fluid overload in unaffected places.
- excessive use, which is contrary to the manufacturers instruction. This may lead to fibrosis of the tissues to be a factor causing further swelling.
- unauthorised increase of compression above the manufactures recommendation. This can cause damage to the collecting or initial lymphatics and further reduce lymphatic capacity to cause increased swelling.
Complications with pumps are in many cases caused by the end user not following the manufacturers recommended use policy or their doctors instruction.
If you are not sure of what to do, or how to do it, seek clarification from the qualified person who is instructing you. Do not proceed or use equipment until you know what to do and how to do it in the correct prescribed manner it is designed for in your circumstance.
Compressive mechanical devices (Pumps), when used as directed and
intended would appear to be a reasonable method of complimentary
assistance.
Additional Precautions and Caution for the end user.
It is the responsibility of the end user to comply and perform with all pre requisites and manufacturers instructions before and when using a compressive device in the treatment of lymphoedema.
In cases that an end user feels unsure or has any type of concern, they should before using, or if already doing so, cease using the device and seek professional clarification to it's suitability for them and it's use with their condition.
The end user should also ensure they understand and know the correct method of use of a device before considering any application or treatment by this system.
All mechanical compressive (pump) devices/equipment should be used only as your doctor advises and as per the manufactures prescribed method of application for the purpose it was designed.
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