We tried to assess the effect of sequential intermittent pneumatic compression therapy in patients with lymphedema and analyze the potential prognostic factors in response to the therapy. Ninety lymphedema patients were included in the analysis. Among them, thirty-six subjects who were in clinical stage 2 or 3, infection-free and free of documented metastasis in the involved extremity were treated with the Lympha-Press. All patients were admitted for 3 days clinical trial. Comparison of circumferential limb measurements before and after a 3-day treatment period was performed. As a result of sequential intermittent pneumatic compression therapy, the volume reductions of arm and leg were 37.95±12.27% and 35.21%±24.42%, respectively. The calf, wrist and lower forearm levels showed the greatest reduction. In contrast with this, the proximal levels of arm and leg showed comparatively poor reduction than distal levels. Almost 90% of arm patients and 76% of leg patients experienced significant reduction (>25%) after therapy. The previous history of secondary infection was significantly associated with the extent of initial leg edema. But the duration and the previous history of radiotherapy or secondary infection were not a negative prognostic factor for response of pneumatic compression therapy.

This study clearly indicates that sequential intermittent pneumatic compression therapy is an effective treatment for lymphedema regardless of the duration of edema and previous history of radiotherapy or secondary infection.