C2021-035

About

The device consists of a series of piezoelectric speakers that would create sound waves required to move fluid in the legs of a patient. The speakers would produce separate signals of pulsations slightly out of phase with each other to create a synchronous phase adjusted waveform. The fluid would be pushed in a single direction, thereby resolving the edema. The fluid is pushed into a more proximal interstitial space and then into lymphatics, then into the vascular system. Thereafter, the renal system excretes the excess fluid from the patient's body. The device would be embedded in nylon netting with elastic. This would be elastically fit to the shape of the leg. This elastic would not exert any pressure, but would have sufficient elasticity where it would not fall off if the patient stood up. Depending on how well the device works clinically, it could either be worn for extended periods of time or intermittently. The current treatment modalities for lymphedema are compression stockings, physical therapy (or other physical modalities such as massage), or sequential compression devices. Compression stockings are worn for an extended period of time, making them uncomfortable for patients. Physical therapy is effective, but takes lots of scheduled visits and time with a professional. Sequential compression devices are bulky and cumbersome to use. Additionally, many sequential compression devices are most commonly used for prevention of deep view thrombosis, and are designed for the prevention of clots, not edema. The invention described here is lightweight and would easily permit the patient to put on the device for an extended period of time and continue to perform activities of daily living.