Use of Sequential Pneumatic Compression Devices to Facilitate Propagation of Contrast during Intranodal Lymphangiography

Abstract

PurposeTo examine effects of lower extremity sequential compression devices (SCDs) on lymphatic transit during intranodal lymphangiography (IL) and thoracic duct interventions. Materials and MethodsA retrospective review of 19 SCD-assisted IL (IL-SCD) procedures was performed. The control group comprised 18 consecutive IL-guided procedures performed in the immediately preceding time period. For IL-SCD procedures, SCDs were placed onto patients’ calves before sterile preparation. Total procedure time and lymphatic transit time were measured. Mean age was 52 years in the IL-SCD group and 64 years in the control group. In the control group, 100% (18/18) of patients had a chylous leak, whereas only 74% (14/19) of patients in the IL-SCD group had a leak. ResultsIn the IL-SCD group, mean total procedure time was 75 minutes (range, 34–126 min), and mean lymphatic transit time was 29 minutes (range, 8–63 min). In the control group, mean total procedure time was 105 minutes (range, 51–203 min), and mean lymphatic transit time was 56 minutes (range, 28–117 min). Lymphatic transit time and procedure time were significantly reduced in the IL-SCD group (P < .01 and P < .05, respectively). ConclusionsUse of lower extremity SCDs reduces lymphatic transit time and IL-dependent procedure time.