Intermittent pneumatic compression devices.

Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) devices are used to aid circulation in the lower limbs as a means of preventing deep vein thrombosis--a condition that can be dangerous and even fatal if it results in a pulmonary embolism. To be effective, IPC devices need to be safe, easy to use, and comfortable. Our Evaluation tells you which products meet these qualifications and how you can select one that best suits your needs. We tested and rated the following products: the VenaFlow, supplied by Aircast/DJO; the Flowtron Excel and Flowtron Universal, supplied by Huntleigh Healthcare; the PlexiPulse and Pulse SC, supplied by Kinetic Concepts Inc. (KCI); the A-V Impulse System, SCD Express, and SCD Response, supplied by Tyco Healthcare/Kendall.