Patent ID: 7819829
Filing Date: 2010-10-26
Classification: A61H

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for enhancing return blood flow in a lower extremity to prevent thrombosis in a human body comprising: a single impedance component disposed at the proximal end of the lower extremity that when activated impedes return venous blood flow by compressing a vein, thereby increasing venous fill in the lower extremity; a single compression component disposed at the distal end of the lower extremity that is activated in response to deactivation of said impedance component and compresses at least a portion of the lower extremity such that return venous blood flow is enhanced; wherein the leg between the impedance component and the compression component is exposed to allow for calf diameter expansion; and a controller in communication with the impedance component and the compression component wherein the controller comprises a control logic circuit programmed to inflate said impedance component to impede return venous blood flow thereby increasing venous fill in the lower extremity and programmed to deactivate said impedance component by deflating said impedance component when the lower extremity is substantially filled; and said control logic circuit programmed to activate said compression component in response to deactivation of said impedance component to compress the lower extremity thereby pushing blood toward the proximal end of the lower extremity thereby enhancing return blood flow and emptying venous blood in the lower extremity.