Compression Device Could Replace Anticoagulants in Surgery

An innovative, noninvasive mobile compression system that helps keep the blood circulating in the limbs could provide an effective alternative to anticoagulants in preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

The ActiveCare+SFT (Synchronized Flow Technology) device combines a mobile unit with calf and foot compression sleeves that can be easily wrapped around the patient's leg or foot during and after surgery. The unit compresses the limb sleeves, automatically applying the correct pressure and inflation rate. This gentle pressure delivers an optimal hemodynamic profile, which is tailored to the patient's specific physiology. The patient's venous blood flow pulses are identified by the system, which then automatically synchronizes itself to this rhythm. Patient compliance, an important factor in successfully preventing DVT, is monitored on a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen, providing feedback for caregivers, physicians, and patients themselves. The device is small and lightweight, and can be operated by either battery or mains current. The ActiveCare+SFT was developed by Medical Compression Systems (MCS; Or Akiva, Israel), and has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), as well as receiving the European Community (CE) approval.

"We aim to be the leaders in this market, and for ActiveCare+SFT to replace today's widespread use of anticoagulant drugs,” said industrial engineer Adi Dagan, CEO and co-founder of MCS. "We firmly believe ours is the best solution in the world for DVT prevention and minimizing bleeding problems.”

The ActiveCare+SFT has been tested in a two-year clinical trial at nine sites across the United States, including the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, NY, USA), the Cedars Sinai Medical Center (Los Angeles, CA, USA), and the Cleveland Clinic (OH, USA) to compare its safety and effectiveness with anticoagulant drugs such as low molecular weight heparin (LMWH).

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Medical Compression Systems