Apparatus for providing intermittent compression boots to reduce the risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT)

摘要

A method and apparatus are disclosed for providing therapeutic intermittent pneumatic pressure to a body portion. An air reservoir receives a substantially steady flow of pressurized air from a pump. Pressure is applied as a rapid pulse from the reservoir to a cuff means in contact with the body portion so as to promote acceleration of venous blood flow in the body portion. In a preferred embodiment, the pneumatic pressure is applied in a graduated manner and/or sequentially distally to proximally along the body portion. A simplified carrying arrangement is provided for the system.