Bandaging and wrapping is a more recent innovation in the U.S. although it has been used in Europe for quite some time. This treatment utilizes a four-layer wrap to work in conjunction with the pump and compression garment in controlling edema. All the digits (fingers and toes) are wrapped individually. The hand or foot is then wrapped, followed by the forearm/calf, elbow/knee,upper arm and thigh. This therapy can be taught to some patients, however older patients or those with limited dexterity i.e.: arthritis, etc. may have difficulty applying these garments. The bandages are reusable. This is important because the bandages are not stocked by every medical supply company and are expensive. Those patients who are able can wrap their limb at night and in the morning take off the wrap and put on their compression garment. They must take the wrap off to use the Bi-Lateral Tubing Connector for AC300 Pump. Many patients often use custom high density foam garments known as The ReidSleeve¬, Tribute Garment, Circaid, JoviPak, MedAssist to as an easier to apply night time compression to replace the bandaging.

MLD or Manual Lymphatic Drainage: This is a specially designed massage therapy developed to reduce lymphedema. It is effective in reducing edema of the body, head, neck and limbs. Used in conjunction with sequential pumps with calibrated gradient pressure, MLD can help give the patient pain reliefand expedite reduction of edema in the limb. The recommended treatment schedule varies with each therapist, but is often twice a day for two weeks or more, followed by once a day for two weeks, and then in intervals necessary to maintain the edema at a minimum level. Sessions can cost anywhere from $65.00an hour and up. Some therapists require the patient to have intensive treatment for one month then move on to amaintenance schedule. Patients can learn a variation of MLD which they can perform on themselves, however, much like bandaging this is dependent upon the patients age and/or physical ability.

How important is hygiene for Lymphedema patients? The patient must be taught meticulous skin care especially with the edematous limb. Because of the increased fluid levels under the skin, the skin cannot resist rips and tears in the same manner as non-edematous skin. Any breakdown in the integrity of the skin results in susceptibility to bacteria, infection and cellulitis, the most erious of complications facing the patient. teach the patient to treat all cuts, burns, bruises, hangnails, ingrown toenails, ingrown hairs, razor rashes, blisters, scrapes, mosquito bites, etc., as potential sites for infection. Should the patient notice any signs or symptoms of infection or cellulitis they should contact their doctor immediately. Delay in treatment will enable the infection to spread to other areas throughout the body Flowtron Hydroven.