Gilbart MK, Oglivie-Harris DJ, Broadhurst C, Clarfield M.
Anterior tibial compartment pressures during intermittent sequential pneumatic
compression therapy.
Am J Sports Med 1995 Nov-Dec;23(6):769-72

University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

We studied the anterior tibial compartment pressures during the application of a
JOBST sequential intermittent pneumatic compression device on 5 healthy human
volunteers (10 legs). Intracompartmental pressures were measured using a slit
catheter. The measurements of interstitial pressures were highest at maximal calf
inflation, and pressures were increased for approximately 120 seconds during each
cycle. Pressure measurements in the inflated pressure sleeve varied less than 10%
with the measured anterior tibial compartment pressures during intermittent
pneumatic compression therapy. This intermittent pneumatic compression device may
elevate intramuscular pressure significantly above that necessary to render
muscle ischemic. However, these periods of pressure elevation are not long enough
to produce any significant adverse effects, and the beneficial effects of
decreased edema fluid may be safely realized.