Ben-Galim P, Steinberg EL, Rosenblatt Y, Parnes N, Menahem A, Arbel R.

A miniature and mobile intermittent pneumatic compression device for the prevention of deep-vein thrombosis after joint replacement.
Acta Orthop Scand. 2004 Oct;75(5):584-7.

Department of Orthopedic Surgery B, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel-Aviv University, Israel. pelegbg@walla.co.il

The WizAir-DVT is a miniature, lightweight (690 g), battery-operated and mobile intermittent pneumatic compression device (ICD), which enables continuous intraoperative use and immediate patient mobilization postoperatively. We compared its efficacy with a commonly used ICD, the Kendall SCD. Peak femoral vein flow velocity was measured in 20 apparently healthy volunteers at rest and with each device: we found no significant differences between them. A second prospective, randomized, clinical trial was used to compare the efficiency of the device in preventing deep venous thrombosis (DVT) after joint replacement in 50 patients (n=25/group). None developed DVT. Doppler ultrasonography revealed no significant differences. The WizAir-DVT antithrombotic compression device is as safe and effective as the Kendall SCD.