Personalized wearable active compression devices with 3D-printed stretchable sensor for venous disease prevention and treatment in the elderly patients

Age is one of the strongest factors for venous diseases such as varicose vein. As age increases, the vein wall becomes weak and the one-way valves in the veins become malfunctional, which leads to blood reflux and causes hypertension in the distal veins. The prolonged venous hypertension causes the vein dilation and leads a variety of complications. Varicose vein causes both physical discomfort and emotional distress, which leads compromised quality of life and reduced social participation.

Compression therapy is a well-recognized treatment to alleviate symptoms caused by varicose vein. Most commonly used compression devices include passive compression bandage and hosiery. However, these passive compression devices are difficult to wear and control the applied pressure. Active compression device, such as intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC), is a more effective compression modality. However, IPC devices are usually bulky and restricted to impatient facilities. Existing IPC devices do not have a pressure feedback control, and the actual interfacial pressure exerted on the limb may vary depending on the body anatomy.

To address the aforementioned issues, we propose a personalized wearable IPC device with 3D-printed stretchable pressure sensor for feedback control. This proposed device has several unique features that are particularly beneficial for the elderly patients, enhancing their quality of life, encouraging their participation in social activities and promoting healthy aging.