Sequential
Compression
Devices
or
SCD’s
or
Intermittent Pneumatic
Compression Devices
© D. J. McMahon 2014
rev 141102
DVT: Deep Vein Thrombosis - Formation of a blood clot in a
deep vein. Commonly affects the leg veins (femoral or popliteal
vein) or the deep veins of the pelvis. Clots may travel to the lung,
causing pulmonary embolus.
Associated with post-surgical, smoking, birth control Rx, and air travel.
Edema: accumulation of fluid within and under the skin, associated
with heart failure or vascular disease. May also be pulmonary.
“Pitting” edema:
Sequential compression devices (SCD’s)
apply a low pressure to a compartmented cuff on the
foot or leg.
Pressure is exerted at the distal compartment first,
then to the more proximal compartment, to promote
the return of venous blood and prevent the formation
of clots.
Pressure sensors in the device monitor the pressure
levels, and a microprocessor controls the applied
pressure and the time delays between cycles.
Newer models sense the venous refill to provide a
‘smarter’ preventative therapy.
Huntleigh (now Arjo Huntleigh):
Default 40 mm Hg shown
Arjo-Huntleigh ACS-800:
Kendall :
PresSsion (Chattanooga Group):
KCI - PlexiPulse:
( legacy brand – now Arjo-Huntleigh )
Typical cycle values:
Kendall “Express” SCD:
Set pressure, foot
Set pressure, leg
Compression period, foot:
Compression period, leg:
130 mmHg
45 mmHg
5 sec
11 sec
Refill period, leg:
Total cycle, leg:
~25 sec (+/-)
~45 sec (+/-)
Blood expelled per cycle:
120 mL (+/-)
Kendall “Express” assembly:
Kendall “Express” electronics:
Maintenance of SCDs:
- Verify accuracy of pressures
- Verify accuracy of timing cycles
- Verify alarm functions
- Verify operation on battery
- Clean, & check filters
- Electrical safety check
Troubleshooting SCDs:
- Disposable cuffs - connectors and joints at the cuff
- Tubing connectors at the pump
- User interface - membrane switches and the power switch
- Pump - infrequently
- Filters
Mach4e system - A catheter is passed into
the clot, where it injects clot-breaking
medication from multiple holes, while
several ultrasonic transducers are energized
and force the medication into the clot.
Decubitus
Ulcers
(“Bed Sores”)
Occur anywhere
that tissue is
denied blood flow
due to pressure
against bone.
Beds for decubitus ulcer prevention -