Clinical Evaluation of a Novel Wearable Compression Technology in the Treatment of Lymphedema, an Open-Label Controlled Study

A diagnosis of lymphedema comes with a lifetime requirement for careful self-care and treatment to control skin deterioration and the consequences of excessive fluid and protein buildup leading to abnormal limb volume and an increased risk of infection. The burden of care and psychosocial aspects of physical disfiguration and loss of function are associated with compromised quality of life (QoL). The current standard therapeutic intervention is complex decongestive therapy with manual lymph drainage and frequent wearing of compression garments. With insurance limitations on therapy visits and the time and travel required, additional home treatment options are needed. Pneumatic compression pumps that mimic the manual massage pressure and pattern are sometimes prescribed, but these are bulky, difficult to apply, and require immobility during treatment. An open-label pilot study in 40 subjects was performed to evaluate the QoL and limb volume maintenance efficacy of a novel wearable compression system (Dayspring (TM)) that is low profile, easy to use, and allows for mobility during treatment. After 28 days of use, subjects had a statistically significant 18% (p < 0.001) improvement in overall QoL as measured by the Lymphedema Quality-of-Life Questionnaire compared with baseline. Individual QoL domains, and limb volume improved with therapy. Adherence was 98% over the course of the study. Results of the clinical evaluation suggest the Dayspring wearable compression device is safe and effective and improves QoL and limb volume. The novel, low-profile device is easy to use and allows for mobility during treatment, addressing a potential barrier to adherence with pneumatic compression devices.

Automated summary

A diagnosis of lymphedema requires lifetime self-care and treatment to control abnormal limb volume and reduce infection risk. Current therapy involves complex decongestive therapy, with limitations on insurance coverage and home treatment options. A wearable compression system (Dayspring (TM)) showed significant improvement in quality of life and limb volume, providing a potential alternative to traditional pneumatic compression devices.