- Unlike some other mechanical compression sleeves, the CalfPad is only applied below the knee, rather than extending up the whole length of the leg. Is this effective?
- How effective are IPC devices in reducing DVT in patients at moderate risk of DVT?
- How effective is IPC in preventing DVT in high-risk Orthopaedics?
- How is the CalfPad different from Foot Impulse Technology with regard to DVT prevention?
- When should I use the CalfPad and when should I use the foot ImPad as methods of DVT prophylaxis?
- Why is the CalfPad design so much more compact than other IPC devices?
- How can such a small garment be effective?
- Why does the CalfPad inflate to 80mmHg in 0.4 seconds? Most other devices squeeze slower, and to a lower pressure?
- Does the CalfPad work on the A-V Impulse System Model 6000 controller?
- What settings should I use when using the CalfPad?
- Can I use only one CalfPad?
- What should I do if the patient has an injury to the lower limb?
- What is the CalfPad made from?
- Can I re-use the CalfPad on other patients?
- How do I apply the CalfPad?
- Can I put CalfPad directly on the patient, or do I need to apply graduated compression stockings first?
- What are the re-order codes for the CalfPad?
Unlike some other mechanical compression sleeves, the CalfPad is only applied below the knee, rather than extending up the whole length of the leg. Is this effective?
Calf length Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC) has found to be as effective as thigh length IPC in reducing the risk of DVT (1).
How effective are IPC devices in reducing DVT in patients at moderate risk of DVT?
IPC devices reduce the risk of DVT by approximately 50-70% in patients at moderate risk of developing DVT compared to giving no prophylaxis (1,2).
How effective is IPC in preventing DVT in high-risk orthopaedics?
IPC devices reduce the risk of DVT by approximately 50-60% in patients having total hip and total knee replacement surgery (1,2), this is similar to the risk reduction of low dose un-fractionated heparin. In comparison, use of Low Molecular Weight Heparin or Foot Impulse Technology reduces the risk of DVT by approximately 80% (3) compared to no prophylaxis. Unlike LMWH, Foot Impulse Technology is not associated with bleeding complications. Unlike typical calf or calf and thigh compression devices, Foot Impulse Technology allows virtually unrestricted access to the extremities.
How is the CalfPad different from Foot Impulse Technology with regard to DVT prevention?
| IPC Devices | Foot ImPad | |
|---|---|---|
| Relative Risk Reduction | 50-60%(1,2) | +80%(3) |
| Proximal DVT | 11.8%(4) | 3.4%(3) |
| Total DVT | 15%(4) | 8.5%(3) |
(DVT Prevention in Elective Orthopaedics)
When should I use the CalfPad and when should I use the foot ImPad as methods of DVT prophylaxis?
| Indication | CalfPad or Foot ImPad? |
|---|---|
| Elective Orthopaedics | Foot ImPad |
| Hip Fracture | Foot ImPad |
| General Surgery | CalfPad |
| Urology | CalfPad |
| Gynaecology | CalfPad |
| Vascular Surgery | CalfPad |
Why is the CalfPad design so much more compact than other IPC devices?
The design is more compact to increase patient comfort and compliance, and to make application easy for the clinician. By increasing compliance and ease of application it will be easier to ensure that the patient complies with therapy.
How can such a small garment be effective?
The CalfPad is anatomically designed to efficiently compress the muscles adjacent to the deep veins of the calf, resulting in high velocity, turbulent venous return throughout the lower limb. There is no need for the CalfPad to be any larger as a result of this efficient design.
Why does the CalfPad inflate to 80mmHg in 0.4 seconds? Most other devices squeeze slower, and to a lower pressure
It is universally agreed that ambulatory exercise is the most effective method of thromboprophylaxis (5). CalfPad uses these unique inflation parameters as it has been found that this closely mimics the natural physiological process of walking. By replicating the process of walking, the CalfPad will reduce stasis, the principle risk factor in DVT formation.
Does the CalfPad work on the A-V Impulse System Model 6000 controller?
Yes, the CalfPad is compatible with the Model 6000 controller.
What settings should I use when using the CalfPad?
Set the pressure to 80mmHg, with a 1 second hold and 20 second interval.
Can I use only one CalfPad?
You can choose to apply one or two CalfPads to the patient. Application of CalfPad to both legs is recommended for optimal therapeutic benefit.
What should I do if the patient has an injury to the lower limb?
We would recommend the use of the foot ImPad.
What is the CalfPad made from?
The CalfPad is made from soft, lightweight non-woven material. The soft inner and outer liners promote patient compliance and comfort. CalfPad is latex-free.
Can I re-use the CalfPad on other patients?
No, the CalfPad is single patient use only.
How do I apply the CalfPad?
Application is simple. Instructions for use can be found with each pair of CalfPad garments.
Can I put CalfPad directly on the patient, or do I need to apply graduated compression stockings first?
CalfPad can be applied directly to the skin. If you prefer to use graduated compression stockings in conjunction with CalfPad this is acceptable.
What are the re-order codes for the CalfPad?
| Re-Order Code | Description | Calf Circumference (cm) |
|---|---|---|
| AV340-5 | CalfPad Medium Size Carton of 5 Pairs | 35-42 |
| AV350-5 | CalfPad Large Size Carton of 5 Pairs | 42-52 |
| AV360-5 | CalfPad Extra Large Size Carton of 5 Pairs | 52-66 |
References
(1)NICE 2007.
(2) International Consensus Statement 2006. Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism. Guidelines according to the scientific evidence.
(3) Data on file, Novamedix.
(4) International Consensus Statement 2001. Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism. Guidelines according to the scientific evidence.
(5) Gardner AMN and Fox RH., 2001. The Venous System in Health and Disease. 3rd Edition. IOS Press.
