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Compliance in using a pneumatic compression device after total knee arthroplasty.
Geoffrey H Westrich1, Peter H Jhon, Pamela M Sánchez
1Hospital for Special Surgery, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA.
American Journal of Orthopedics (Belle Mead, N.J.)
|March 22, 2003
Summary
High compliance (90.1%) was observed with pneumatic foot compression devices for preventing venous thrombosis after total knee arthroplasty. Patients and nurses found the device comfortable and easy to use.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Vascular Surgery
- Medical Device Technology
Background:
- Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant risk following total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
- Pneumatic compression devices (PCDs) are commonly used for VTE prophylaxis.
- Assessing patient and staff compliance with PCDs is crucial for effective prophylaxis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate patient compliance with a specific pneumatic foot compression device (PlexiPulse) after TKA.
- To assess patient and nursing perceptions of the device's comfort, usability, and effectiveness.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 100 patients undergoing unilateral TKA.
- Observation of device usage by nurses and research assistants to determine total and actual compliance.
- Surveys issued to patients and nurses to evaluate comfort, ease of use, and effectiveness.
Main Results:
- Actual patient compliance with the pneumatic foot compression device was high at 90.1%.
- Patients reported favorable experiences regarding the device's comfort and ease of application/removal.
- Nurses rated the PlexiPulse device highly compared to other PCDs previously used.
Conclusions:
- The PlexiPulse pneumatic foot compression device demonstrates high compliance and positive user feedback in the TKA population.
- This device is a potentially effective and well-tolerated option for VTE prophylaxis after total knee arthroplasty.