Jacobs MK, McCance KL, Stewart ML.
External pneumatic intermittent compression for treatment of dependent pregnancy
edema.
Nurs Res 1982 May-Jun;31(3):159-62, 191

A portable external pneumatic intermittent compression (EPIC) device has been
successful in reducing peripheral edema. This study explored the effectiveness of
EPIC for treating dependent pregnancy edema. In the study, 42 healthy pregnant
women received EPIC for 30 minutes at 40 torr while in the left lateral recumbent
position: Group One with mid-thigh boots, and Group Two with below-knee boots.
Prior to compression, descriptive data were gathered, leg circumference
measurements made, and surface skin temperatures recorded for three sites per
leg. Vital signs were taken and pedal edema subjectively indexed. Following
compression, circumferences, skin temperatures, vital signs, and edema indices
were rerecorded. Three volumes were calculated for each leg using a mathematical
model of leg segments as conical frustum units. Mean volume reductions for each
leg were significant. The mid-thigh-length boots produced greater mean volume
decreases. The volume decrease for calf, lower leg, and foot frustum units were
significant. EPIC holds promise as a useful treatment for dependent pregnancy
edema.