Patent attributes
The present invention provides an apparatus and method for enhancing the circulation to an extremity of a patient. During the compression phase, the extremity is compressed, pushing out superficial edema as well as emptying the superficial venous tree. The compression cycle is timed to begin at or slightly after the “P” segment of the heartbeat. Air slowly fills a boot so that it reaches maximum capacity just as the heart reaches the diastolic phase in the heartbeat. Since the heart is at its lowest pressure, there is little resistance from the heart, making it easier for the compression of the extremity to push fluids out into the venous structures carrying them back to the heart. When the heart reaches the next full beat, the extremity is void of some of the fluid, forcing from the heart fresh oxygenated blood into the extremity, thereby promoting circulation through the heart.
