Skin microcirculation in feet of healthy subjects after short-term intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Approximately 10-20% of individuals older than 70 years have peripheral arterial disease (PAD). In PAD, atherosclerotic narrowing of the leg arteries limits the blood flow to the extremities, which is associated with considerable morbidity, and increased cardiovascular risk. Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is promising as a conservative means of maintaining the lower extremity circulation (1). A number of studies have shown improvement in skin microcirculation as well as in arterial blood flow after using long term use of IPC (2). However, the physiological mechanism of action and efficiency of the devices are still under investigation (3). This study will provide preliminary data for quantifying the benefits that could result from short term use of IPC with the Perfect Touch® device.