HHC Lymphflow Go PCD evaluation
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A Pilot evaluation on the Use of the Haddenham (HHC) Lymphflow Go Pneumatic Compression Device (PCD) in Oedema related to Lymphoedema and Chronic Venous Insufficiency.
IRAS ID
355616
Contact name
Natalie Phillips
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Haddenham Healthcare
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 3 months, 0 days
Research summary
Summary of Research
A portable pneumatic compression device is a new concept in lymphoedema and Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). The current predecessor devices are bulky, not portable and not clear in their instructions for use. This new device has been developed to address these challenges with portability and ease of use whilst encompassing two treatment modes with 3 different pressure profiles. The literature details conflicting information on levels of pressure or modes of treatment with no clear consensus to guide treatment choices.
This small pilot study aims to demonstrate safety and efficacy of the product in a small cohort of patients, with emphasis placed on the portability and usability of the device and whether the device is a useful adjunct to self-care which in turn will reduce the burden of self-management on the patient as visits to the clinical settings can be reduced. Furthermore, research has shown a reduction in infections associated with lymphoedema, which in turn reduces the burden on the health service.Summary of Results
This summary provides an easy-to-understand explanation of the pilot study evaluating the Haddenham LymphFlow Go pneumatic compression device (PCD) for people living with lymphoedema or chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). The full clinical report was reviewed to produce this summary.
What was the study about?
The study explored whether the portable LymphFlow Go device is safe, easy to use, and effective at helping people manage swelling in their legs. Unlike traditional compression devices, which are bulky and difficult to transport, the LymphFlow Go has the pump built directly into the garment, making it much easier to use at home.
Who took part?
Ten adults aged 26–81 took part. They had various diagnoses including primary and secondary lymphoedema, venous insufficiency, and lipoedema. All participants used the device once a day at home for 14 days after an initial supervised session in clinic.
What did the study involve?
At two clinic visits (Day 1 and Day 14), participants had their leg volume, tissue water content, and tissue firmness measured. They also completed a quality-of-life questionnaire. They used the device daily at home and were encouraged to report any problems.
Main Findings:
1. Reduction in limb swelling:
• 8 out of 10 participants showed a reduction in swelling.
• The average reduction was 224 ml, which is considered statistically significant.
• The two participants who had slight increases still showed improvements in tissue condition.
2. Tissue changes:
• Small improvements in tissue softness and water content were noted, although these were not statistically significant.
3. Quality of life:
• Improvements were seen in function and appearance.
• Overall quality of life remained stable, likely due to the short timeframe.4. Usability and satisfaction:
• Participants found the device easy to use and comfortable.
• Most said they would consider using it long-term.
• The garment generally fitted well and was easy to apply.
• Treatment time was considered appropriate.
• Some did not feel it could replace manual lymphatic drainage but agreed it works well alongside other treatments.
5. Safety:
• No serious adverse events occurred.
• Two minor issues were resolved easily (one device replacement and one garment seam issue).
• Overall, the device was considered safe and well tolerated.
6. What does this mean?
The study suggests that the LymphFlow Go is:
• Safe for people with lymphoedema or venous disease
• Effective at reducing swelling over a short period
• Easy and comfortable for patients to use at home
• A helpful additional tool for ongoing self-management
• Potentially able to reduce clinic visits and support greater independence
However, this was a small, short-term study. Larger, longer studies are needed to:
• Compare different treatment modes
• Confirm the best pressures and treatment times
• Understand which patients benefit mostConclusion:
The LymphFlow Go appears to be a safe, well-liked, and clinically useful device for helping manage leg swelling at home. Most participants showed reduced swelling, small improvements in tissue condition, and high satisfaction with ease of use.
These promising results indicate that the device could play an important role in long-term lymphoedema and chronic venous insufficiency management, supporting patients in their self-care and reducing reliance on clinic-based treatments. Further, larger studies would help confirm its long-term effectiveness.REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 1
REC reference
25/NS/0042
Date of REC Opinion
14 May 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion