Sequential Compression Device in Distributive Peripheral Edema and Hemodynamic Stability Among Patients in Critical Care Units

Globally, approximately (13-20) million people treated in intensive care units (ICUs) each year, where common complications such as edema are due to prolonged immobility and critical illness . Edema refers to accumulation of excess fluid in body tissues, manifesting in multi forms such as cerebral, pulmonary, or ocular edema. Peripheral edema considered one of the most prevalent types, specifically represents to swelling in the limbs. It caused by imbalance between oncotic and hydrostatic pressures, leading to increased capillary permeability and fluid accumulation in the interstitial space(Smith et al., 2024).

A study found that hospital mortality was significantly higher in those presenting with peripheral edema (22.2%) compared with those without (12.6%) among 12,778 critically ill patients. Also, the severity of edema at admission correlated with increased mortality risk.

The prevalence of peripheral lower limb edema among older adults in U.S was 20.0%, 19.4%, 19.0%, 19.0%, and 19.1% in 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, and 2016, respectively. It was significantly associated with clinical, demographic, and lifestyle factors, including obesity, diabetes, hypertension, pain, low physical activity, mobility limitations, advanced age, female sex, minority race, and low socioeconomic status.

In Japan, the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare reported an increase in the number of patients with severe motion disabilities, particularly among individuals over 60 years old. Similarly, data from the Health and Retirement Study revealed that chronic peripheral edema affects approximately 19% to 20% of older adults, particularly among women, racial minorities, and individuals with limited mobility.

Peripheral edema is a multifactorial and complex condition that affects patients suffering from a various of diseases. Its underlying pathology varies considerably, with common causes including congestive heart failure (CHF), liver disease, vascular conditions such as chronic venous insufficiency, and postoperative surgical complications.

Inclusion criteria

• Adult patients who were hospitalized in critical care units.
• Subjects over the age of 18 years.
• Presence of peripheral edema (pitting edema ≥1+ in lower extremities).
• Patients how are hemodynamically stable.
• Patients how are able to tolerate positioning for interventions.

Exclusion criteria

• Patients with lymphedema.
• Patients with chronic kidney disease.
• patients with presence of deep vein thrombosis, severe peripheral arterial disease, or phlebitis.
• patients with open wounds, ulcers, or skin infections on lower limbs.
• patients with fractures, orthopedic surgery, or joint immobility in lower extremities.
• patients with severe cardiac failure or pulmonary edema.