Mobile Limb Compression System

Abstract

A compression device for applying pressure to a subject is provided. The compression device includes a compression system and one or more compression components connected to the compression system and secured around the subject, the one or more compression components including an air cavity. A method for applying pressure to a subject is also provided. In one embodiment, the compression device further includes a liquid cavity and a means for circulating a coolant through the liquid cavity.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the application of compression and cooling in the field of supportive care. In particular, the present disclosure relates to compression systems that may include cooling for a variety of purposes, including the prevention of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. [Background technology]

[0002] Compression is the constriction of a body part within a device, wrap, or sleeve to apply pressure to the body part. Cooling may also be used simultaneously to produce cryocompression, which simultaneously applies pressure to a body part while lowering its temperature. Cryocompression is used in a variety of fields, including cosmetics and medicine. For example, cryocompression can be used to prevent and / or treat chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). CIPN is a severe, dose-limiting side effect of several chemotherapeutic agents commonly used in cancer treatment. CIPN affects cancer survival rates because it is progressive and often causes irreversible pain / hypersensitivity in the hands and feet, potentially leading to chemotherapy delays and cessation. Overall, CIPN affects a significant number of cancer patients worldwide each year and contributes to long-term morbidity in cancer patients. CIPN also significantly increases the economic burden, with medical costs estimated to exceed US$17,000 in cancer patients with CIPN compared with patients without CIPN. CIPN also causes patients to lose work, with approximately 50 days of lost productivity in usual care.

[0003] There is an unmet and growing clinical need for systems, devices, and methods to prevent and / or treat CIPN in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment. Available treatments for CIPN are limited to relieving symptoms such as paraesthesia, dysesthesia, and pain. Several methods have been developed, including pharmacological agents such as vitamin E or omega-3 supplementation, but none have proven effective in large-scale clinical trials.

[0004] Cooling of the extremities during chemotherapy treatment has demonstrated a neuroprotective effect by preventing / reducing the severity of CIPN. Studies have shown that the degree of neuroprotection depends on the efficiency of hypothermia of the extremities, i.e., the degree of cooling achieved. Studies have also shown that patients can tolerate lower temperatures for longer periods when compression is applied simultaneously with cooling.

[0005] 1A and 1B, a subject undergoing chemotherapy treatment with and without limb hypothermia is shown, respectively. The subject can receive chemotherapy by the introduction of neurotoxic chemotherapeutics 104, such as paclitaxel, into the arm. Systemic cancer treatment with neurotoxic chemotherapeutics has been shown to cause inflammation and nerve damage, for example, to the ulnar nerve 108. This nerve damage manifests as numbness and tingling in the extremities, such as the hand 112, and is known as CIPN. Limb hypothermia 116 prevents CIPN by causing vasoconstriction in cooled areas, such as the ulnar vein 120, and reduces the area's exposure to the chemotherapy agent by reducing blood flow to the area. Limb hypothermia also reduces inflammation in the subject.

[0006] Among the various cryotherapy modalities available, ice packs and commercially available gel packs are the most frequently used modalities. Due to the risk of frostbite and the subject's temperature intolerance, studies recommend an intermittent cooling schedule of 30 minutes of cooling combined with 30 minutes of rewarming. However, such an intermittent routine may be ineffective or, worse, counterproductive due to blood flow recoil. Furthermore, ice packs can cause large temperature fluctuations due to phase changes during melting.

[0007] Freezing gloves have previously been used to administer cryotherapy to extremities. However, these gloves were difficult for the operator to handle, provided inconsistent cooling, caused discomfort to the subject, and limited the duration for which cryotherapy could be applied. These gloves were eventually withdrawn from the market due to the occurrence of frostbite.

[0008] Other existing cooling solutions are bulky, labor-intensive, and energy-inefficient, making them unsuitable for preventing CIPN in cancer patients. Existing cryotherapy / cooling devices, which utilize a continuously controlled flow of coolant, use outdated vapor compression technology that is heavy and cumbersome, limiting patient mobility, the environment in which they are used, and, as a result, their scope of application. Other methods for cooling exist, but they have problems or associated limitations. For example, cooling using the Peltier effect cannot achieve the required cooling rate while maintaining mobility. On the other hand, cooling using the magnetocaloric effect is still in the research stage and is not commercially available.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need for specially developed devices and methods for delivering cryotherapy in a safe and convenient manner. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] One general aspect of the present disclosure includes a compression apparatus for applying pressure to a subject. The compression apparatus also includes a compression system. The apparatus also includes one or more compression components connected to the compression system and secured around the subject, and the one or more compression components can include an air cavity.

[0011] Embodiments may include one or more of the following features: In the compression device, the compression system periodically introduces and releases air from the air cavity based on a predetermined compression time and a predetermined decompression time until an operator-set treatment time is reached. The predetermined compression time is 30 to 50 seconds. The predetermined decompression time is 10 to 30 seconds. The operator-set treatment time is 2 to 5 hours. The compression system may include an air circuit connected to the air cavity of one or more compression components, and the air circuit may include one or more air pumps, one or more solenoid valves, and one or more pressure switches. The one or more air pumps introduce air into the air cavity, and the one or more solenoid valves release air from the air cavity. The one or more pressure switches release air from the air cavity when the pressure in the air cavity exceeds a set pressure. One or more compression components may further comprise a liquid cavity, which, when secured around the subject, is disposed between the air cavity and the subject. The compression system may comprise a tank, and may further comprise a liquid circuit connected to the liquid cavity of one or more compression components, and a refrigeration circuit connected to the tank of the liquid circuit. The tank of the liquid circuit contains a coolant, and the coolant in the tank is cooled by the refrigeration circuit. The coolant is cooled to a predetermined temperature by an operator. The coolant has a temperature of 6 to 24°C. Implementations of the described technology may comprise hardware, a method or process, or computer software on a computer-accessible medium.

[0012] One general aspect includes a method of applying pressure to a subject. The method also includes providing a compression system. The method also includes providing that one or more compression components can include an air cavity. The method also includes securing the one or more compression components around the subject and connecting the one or more compression components to the compression system. The method also includes periodically introducing and removing air from the air cavity based on a predetermined compression time and a predetermined decompression time until a treatment time set by an operator is reached.

[0013] Embodiments may include one or more of the following features: The method includes a predetermined compression time of 30 to 50 seconds; a predetermined decompression time of 10 to 30 seconds; and an operator-set treatment time of 2 to 5 hours. The one or more compression components may further comprise a liquid cavity. The method may include circulating a coolant through the liquid cavity of the one or more compression components. The coolant has a temperature of 6 to 24°C. The coolant is cooled to the predetermined temperature by the operator.

[0014] Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding hardware, machines, computer systems, devices, and computer programs, each configured to perform the operations of the method.

[0015] The features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood with regard to the following description and accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] Figures 1A and 1B show subjects undergoing chemotherapy treatment with and without extremity hypothermia, respectively. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a front perspective view of the exterior of a cryocompression system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2B]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a rear perspective view of the exterior of a cryocompression system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of components of a cryocompression system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of components of a cryocompression system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic flow chart illustrating a method for controlling a cryocompression process of a cryocompression component by a cryocompression system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Referring now specifically to the drawings in detail, it is emphasized that the details shown are exemplary and are for purposes of illustrative explanation of embodiments of the present disclosure, and in this regard, the description using the drawings will make apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced.

[0018] Identical or overlapping or equivalent or similar structures, elements, or parts that appear in one or more drawings are labeled throughout with the same reference numeral, and may be labeled with an additional letter or letters, if necessary, to distinguish between similar entities or variations of entities, and may not be repeatedly labeled and / or described. References to previously presented elements are made without necessarily further citing the drawings or descriptions in which they appear.

[0019] Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures are chosen for convenience or clarity of presentation and are not necessarily shown to scale or in actual perspective. For convenience or clarity, some elements or structures are not shown, or are shown only in part, and / or in a different perspective or from a different viewpoint. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, modules, units, and / or circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the present invention.

[0021] Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures are chosen for convenience or clarity of presentation and are not necessarily shown to scale or in actual perspective. For convenience or clarity, some elements or structures are not shown, or are shown only in part, and / or in a different perspective or from a different viewpoint.

[0022] As used herein, the terms "plurality" and "a plurality" can include, for example, "multiple" or "two or more," although embodiments of the present invention are not limited in this regard. The terms "plurality" or "a plurality" may be used throughout this specification to describe two or more components, devices, elements, units, parameters, etc. Unless explicitly stated, method embodiments described herein are not constrained to a particular order or arrangement. Furthermore, some of the described method embodiments or elements thereof may occur or be performed simultaneously, contemporaneously, or in parallel. Unless otherwise indicated, the use of the conjunction "or" as used herein should be understood to be inclusive (any or all of the listed alternatives).

[0023] Referring now specifically to the drawings in detail, it is emphasized that the details shown are exemplary and are for purposes of illustrative explanation of embodiments of the present disclosure, and in this regard, the description using the drawings will make apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced.

[0024] The present disclosure relates to a compression device for applying pressure to a subject. The compression device can include a compression system connected to one or more compression components secured around a body part of a subject. In some embodiments, the compression system can be configured to apply pressure solely by introducing air into one or more compression components. In some embodiments, and as mentioned below, the compression system can be a cryocompression system 200 (see FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B) that introduces both air and a coolant into separate cavities within one or more cryocompression components 304 (see FIG. 3A) to simultaneously apply pressure and cool the body part of a subject.

[0025] Referring to FIG. 2A, this is a schematic diagram of an exterior front perspective view of cryocompression system 200, while FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram of an exterior rear perspective view of cryocompression system 200, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Cryocompression system 200 may include several features. In some embodiments, cryocompression system 200 may include a compact refrigeration unit utilizing a state-of-the-art vapor compressor to provide precise liquid temperature control and regulation (see FIGS. 3A and 3B). In some embodiments, cryocompression system 200 may include a powerful liquid pump and specially designed evaporator technology for optimal heat exchange and thermal fluid optimized dynamics (see FIGS. 3A and 3B). In some embodiments, cryocompression system 200 may include a highly programmable and multi-function programmable logic controller (PLC) 302 (see FIG. 3B) system. In some embodiments, programmable logic controller 302 may be provided by Preface. In some embodiments, the PLC 302 system may be connected to a screen 202, which is designed to display separate user interfaces for healthcare professionals, a subject viewing screen, and service and maintenance diagnostics and data collection. In some embodiments, the screen 202 may display information such as coolant temperature, battery level, coolant level, and flow rate. In some embodiments, the cryocompression system 200 may be programmable for an optimal user experience for users worldwide. In some embodiments, the software implemented on the PLC 302 may use a graphical programming language called ladder logic, although other graphical programming languages ​​may also be utilized.In some embodiments, the cryocompression system 200 may include an input device that allows a user to input information, data, or instructions for the PLC 302. Preferably, the screen 202 may be a touch screen such that the screen 202 is also an input device.

[0026] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cryocompression system 200 may include multiple ports 204. In some embodiments, the ports 204 may be configured to receive power from an external power source to power the cryocompression system 200. In other embodiments, the cryocompression system 200 may include a rechargeable, portable, internal battery power source with an external transformer (low-voltage system). In some embodiments, the ports 204 may be accessory ports configured to connect to one or more external limb cooling accessories 304 secured or wrapped around one or more limbs of a subject (see FIGS. 3A and 3B). In some embodiments, the cryocompression system 200 may include controllable air intermittent compressive technology for independent limbs to avoid interfering with chemotherapy infusion, and two accessory ports for dual limb cooling. In some embodiments, the cryocompression system 200 may be used to perform limb cooling on either both arms or both legs of a subject and may include integrated programming allowing selection between upper and lower limbs.

[0027] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cryocompression system 200 may be housed in a portable International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 60601 case designed and constructed with a single carrying handle 206. In some embodiments, the cryocompression system 200 may be highly portable and lightweight, preferably weighing approximately 10 kg, allowing for ease of subject movement. In some embodiments, the cryocompression system 200 may function at an ambient temperature of approximately 30° C. In some embodiments, the cryocompression system 200 may be designed in accordance with ISO 13485 design considerations.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cryocompression system 200 may include one or more vents 208 that allow air to enter and exit the cryocompression system 200. In some embodiments, the one or more vents 208 may be configured to allow hot air to exit the cryocompression system 200 to prevent the cryocompression system 200 from overheating. In some embodiments, the one or more vents 208 may be configured to allow cooler air to enter the cryocompression system 200 to cool the cryocompression system 200.

[0029] 3A and 3B, which are schematic diagrams of components of a cryocompression system 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. According to some embodiments, the cryocompression system 200 may include three circuits: an air circuit 300, a liquid circuit 400, and a cooling circuit 500. According to some embodiments, a programmable logic controller 302 may control a power supply 303 to provide power to components within the air circuit 300, the liquid circuit 400, and the cooling circuit 500 to perform cryocompression via one or more cryocompression components 304 or accessories 304 (see FIG. 3B). In some embodiments, the programmable logic controller 302 may receive input regarding a current battery level 307. Preferably, the cryocompression system 200 may include a speaker that generates an audible indication to alert an operator when the programmable logic controller 302 receives input that the battery level 307 is below a certain percentage. In some embodiments, a beep may be generated when the battery level falls below 40%, and a continuous tone is generated when the battery level falls below 20%. In some embodiments, the cryocompression component 304 may include an air cavity and a liquid cavity, with the liquid cavity positioned proximal to the subject's skin and the air cavity positioned above the liquid cavity. The liquid cavity of the cryocompression component 304 receives coolant from the liquid circuit 400. Cryocompression is performed by introducing air via the air circuit 300 into the air cavity above the liquid cavity containing the coolant, thereby pressing the liquid cavity against the subject's skin. In some embodiments, the coolant used may be an organic salt-based freeze depressant containing a pH buffer. The coolant may be at a temperature anywhere between 6 and 24°C. Preferably, the coolant has a mass of 1.0 to 1.1 kg at 20°C to allow smooth flow within and between the cryocompression system 200 and the cryocompression component 304 during limb cryocompression. * m 2In some embodiments, the coolant may include potassium formate (CAS No.: 590-29-4) (20-40%), dipotassium phosphate (CAS No.: 7758-11-4) (0.5-5%), and deionized water (CAS No.: 7732-18-5) (50-70%). In some embodiments, the cryocompression component 304 may further include one or more pressure sensors (not shown) connected to the programmable logic controller 302, which provide information regarding the amount of pressure applied to the subject's limb.

[0030] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cryocompression system 200 may be connected to one or more cryocompression components 304 or accessories 304 for compressing and cooling a subject's limb. Preferably, the cryocompression system 200 is connected to two cryocompression components 304 for simultaneously compressing and cooling both arms or legs of a subject. The cryocompression components 304 may comprise cooling mittens, gloves, covers, or other elements capable of providing compression and transfer of coolant from a compressor 508 to the cryocompression components 304 worn or placed on the subject's limb. In some embodiments, the cryocompression components 304 may be activated and operated without being placed on the subject's limb or after being placed on the subject's limb. In some embodiments, the cryocompression components 304 may also be applied to other users for non-medical benefits, such as cosmetic benefits.

[0031] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the air circuit 300 can control the flow of air to one or more cryocompression components 304 to determine the pressure applied by the one or more cryocompression components 304. The air circuit 300 of the cryocompression system 200 can include one or more air pumps 308, one or more solenoid valves 310 (or pneumatic valves 310), and one or more pressure switches 312. The programmable logic controller 302 can be electronically connected to the one or more solenoid valves 310 (or pneumatic valves 310), the one or more pressure switches 312, and the one or more air pumps 308.

[0032] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, an air pump 308, a solenoid valve 310, and a pressure switch 312 may be connected to an air channel 314 connected to the cryocompression component 304. The air pump 308 may pump air into the air channel 314 and the cryocompression component 304, thereby increasing the amount of air in the air cavity of the cryocompression component 304 and thereby increasing the pressure applied to the subject by the cryocompression component 304. The solenoid valve 310 may release air from the air channel 314 and the cryocompression component 304, thereby decreasing the amount of air in the air cavity of the cryocompression component 304 and thereby decreasing the pressure applied to the subject by the cryocompression component 304. The pressure switch 312 can sense the pressure in the air channel 314 and the cryocompression component 304 and can release air from the air channel 314 and the cryocompression component 304, reducing the amount of air and air pressure in the air channel 314 and the cryocompression component 304, thereby reducing the pressure applied by the cryocompression component 304. Preferably, the pressure switch 312 is mechanical, but in some embodiments, the pressure switch 312 can be electronic.

[0033] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the liquid circuit 400 can control the flow of coolant into and out of one or more cryocompression components 304. The liquid circuit 400 of the cryocompression system 200 can include a liquid pump 402, one or more turbines 404 (or flow meters), and a tank 406. In some embodiments, the tank 406 can include a level sensor 410, a temperature sensor 412, and an evaporator 506. In some embodiments, the tank 406 can further include a filler 407 with a valved opening for filling the tank 406 with more coolant as needed, and a drainer 409 for removing excess coolant or liquid. The programmable logic controller 302 can be electronically connected to the liquid pump 402, the one or more turbines 404 (or flow meters 404), and the components within the tank 406, including the level sensor 410 and the temperature sensor 412. The level sensor 410 provides data to the programmable logic controller 302 regarding the current coolant level and notifies the programmable logic controller 302 whether the coolant level is sufficient or whether the coolant level is low. The programmable logic controller 302 can then display information about the coolant level on the screen 202. One or more turbines 404 (or flow meters 404) provide the programmable logic controller 302 with data that the coolant is flowing and the flow rate of the coolant. The programmable logic controller 302 can then display information about the flow rate on the screen 202. The temperature sensor 412 can provide data to the programmable logic controller 302 regarding the current temperature of the coolant. The programmable logic controller 302 can generate a temperature readout 414 that is displayed on the screen 202.

[0034] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the coolant in the tank 406 can be cooled and delivered to the liquid pump 402. The coolant from the liquid pump 402 can be pumped through a turbine 404 (or flow meter 404) to one or more cryocompression components 304, with a small amount of coolant being sent back to the tank 406 through an overflow channel 408, creating a short circuit for the coolant flow. In some embodiments, the overflow channel 408 can allow for continuous flow of coolant between the liquid pump 402 and the tank 406, even when the cryocompression component 304 is disconnected to allow agitation of the coolant, preventing freezing or local cold spots, and maintaining a uniform temperature throughout the coolant circuit. The coolant pumped to the cryocompression component 304 circulates through the liquid cavity of the one or more cryocompression components 304, exiting the one or more cryocompression components 304 and entering the tank 406.

[0035] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the refrigeration circuit 500 can cool a refrigerant in the tank 406. The refrigeration circuit 500 can include an evaporator 506, a compressor 508, a condenser 510, a dryer 502, and a capillary 504 in the tank 406. In some embodiments, the refrigeration circuit 500 can circulate the refrigerant from the compressor 508, the condenser 510, the dryer 502, and the capillary 504 through the evaporator 506 in the tank 406 and periodically back to the compressor 508. In some embodiments, the compressor 508 compresses the refrigerant gas by increasing the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant gas. The pulse width modulation utilized by the compressor 508 can be based on the temperature of the refrigerant and an operator-set temperature. The hot, pressurized refrigerant gas may be sent through a discharge line 516 to a condenser 510 and then through a dryer 502 to remove water before being sent to a capillary tube 504 where the hot, pressurized refrigerant gas expands and is depressurized. In some embodiments, air may be blown over the condenser 510 from outside the cryocompression system 200 to cool the cooling circuit 500. In some embodiments, air may be forced out of the cryocompression system 200 to remove heat from the cooling circuit 500. In some embodiments, air may be introduced into or removed from the cryocompression system 200 through a vent 208. In some embodiments, the refrigerant is then sent to an evaporator 506 where it boils and vaporizes, thus reducing the temperature of the refrigerant to below freezing. The vaporized refrigerant may then be sucked back into the compressor 508 via a suction line 514, repeating the cycle.

[0036] Reference is now made to Figure 4, which is a schematic flow chart illustrating a method 600 of controlling the cryocompression process of the cryocompression component 304 by the cryocompression system 200, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method 600 of controlling the cryocompression process may be implemented by a programmable logic controller 302 within the cryocompression system 200, which controls the different components of the cryocompression system 200. Preferably, the cryocompression system 200 is powered by low-voltage 24V DC power, although other suitable power sources may be used.

[0037] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a method 600 for controlling a cryocompression process begins at operation 602, in which the cryocompression system 200 is turned on and the cryocompression component 304 is turned on. The cryocompression system 200 then cools the coolant and reads the temperature of the coolant circulating within the cryocompression component 304 in operation 604. The cryocompression system 200 can automatically determine whether the temperature of the coolant is lower than a temperature set by an operator in operation 606. Preferably, the operator can select from three cooling modes: low, medium, and high. Preferably, the set temperature for the low cooling mode is between 6 and 12°C, ideally 10°C. Preferably, the set temperature for the medium cooling mode is between 13 and 17°C, ideally 15°C. Preferably, the set temperature for the high cooling mode is between 18 and 24°C, ideally 20°C. If the coolant temperature is lower than the temperature set by the operator, the cryocompression system 200 may indicate to the operator whether the subject's arm is cannulated, and if so, which arm, in operation 610. If the coolant temperature is not lower than the temperature set by the operator, the cryocompression system 200 may execute a 0.1 second delay in operation 608 before executing operation 604 again to read the coolant temperature.

[0038] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, after the operator indicates whether the subject's arm is cannulated in operation 610, the cryocompression system 200 can turn off the air pressure in the cryocompression component 304 of the cannulated arm of the subject and begin applying pressure in the cryocompression component 304 to the non-cannulated arm in operation 612. Preferably, the pressure in the compression component is applied cyclically. Preferably, the pressure is applied for a predetermined compression time of 30 to 50 seconds and a predetermined decompression time of 10 to 30 seconds, ideally for a predetermined cycle of 1 minute with a predetermined compression time of 50 seconds and a predetermined decompression time of 10 seconds. The cryocompression system 200 can also begin circulating coolant to the cryocompression component 304 in operation 612. Preferably, the coolant is circulated to one or more cryocompression components 304 at a flow rate of 25 to 45 ml / sec, ideally 35 to 40 ml / sec.

[0039] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the programmable logic controller 302 initiates the application of cyclic pressure within the cryocompression component 304 at operation 614. At operation 614, the programmable logic controller 302 opens the solenoid valve 310 to reduce pressure and release air from the cryocompression component 304, turns off the air pump 308, and deactivates the pressure switch 312. The cryocompression system 200 then resets the timer to 0 seconds and executes a time delay determined by the predetermined decompression time at operation 616 before starting the timer at operation 618 by setting the timer to 0 seconds. Once the timer is set to 0 seconds at operation 618, the programmable logic controller 302 closes the solenoid valve 310 and turns on the air pump 308 to introduce air into the cryocompression component 304 at operation 620. The pressure switch 312 remains inactive. When the timer determines that the predetermined compression time has been reached at operation 622, the programmable logic controller 302 executes operation 614 again to repeat the compression cycle. If the predetermined compression time has not been reached, the programmable logic controller 302 performs operation 624, which measures the air pressure within the cryocompression component 304. If the air pressure within the cryocompression component 304 is below the set pressure, the programmable logic controller 302 continues operation 620 to introduce more air into the cryocompression component 304, thereby increasing the air pressure within the cryocompression component 304. If the air pressure within the cryocompression component 304 is not below the set pressure, the programmable logic controller 302 performs operation 626 to maintain the air pressure by closing the pressure switch 312 and turning off the air pump 308. The solenoid valve 310 remains closed. The pressure switch 312 releases air if the air pressure exceeds the set pressure. Preferably, the set pressure is between 5 and 150 mmHg (0.09 and 3 PSI), and ideally 15 mmHg (0.3 PSI).

[0040] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, after operation 626 is performed, the programmable logic controller 302 continues to monitor the air pressure in the cryocompression component 304 in operation 628. If the air pressure in the cryocompression component 304 is below the set pressure, the programmable logic controller 302 continues operation 620 to increase the air pressure to the set pressure. If the air pressure in the cryocompression component 304 does not fall below the set pressure, the programmable logic controller 302 performs operation 630, waiting until the timer determines that the predetermined compression time has been reached. If the timer determines that the predetermined compression time has been reached in operation 630, the programmable logic controller 302 performs operation 632 to determine whether the operator-set treatment duration has been reached. Preferably, the operator-set treatment time is between two and five hours, and ideally three hours. If the operator-set treatment time has not been reached, the programmable logic controller 302 performs operation 614 again to repeat the compression cycle. If the operator-set treatment time is reached, the programmable logic controller 302 executes operation 634 where the cryocompression process 600 stops.

[0041] Different embodiments are disclosed herein. Features of certain embodiments can be combined with features of other embodiments, and thus, a particular embodiment may be a combination of features of more than one embodiment. The foregoing description of embodiments of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that many modifications, variations, substitutions, changes, and equivalents are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations that fall within the true spirit of the present invention.

[0042] While particular embodiments of the disclosed subject matter have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent that the disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described herein, and numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents are not excluded.

Claims

1. 1. A compression device for applying pressure to a subject, said compression device comprising: A compression system, one or more compression components connected to the compression system and secured around the subject, the compression components comprising an air cavity and a liquid cavity, the liquid cavity being disposed between the air cavity and the subject when secured around the subject; The compression system, an air circuit configured to sequentially introduce air into the air cavity for a predetermined compression time and then release the air from the air cavity for a predetermined decompression time until an operator-set treatment time is reached; A fluid circuit, a liquid pump connected to a tank containing a coolant, the liquid pump configured to supply the coolant to the liquid cavity via an output channel; a liquid circuit including a return channel disposed between the liquid cavity and the tank; a cooling circuit connected to the tank and configured to cool the coolant in the tank; and Equipped with the liquid circuit further includes an overflow channel disposed between the output channel and the tank and in fluid communication with the output channel and the tank, the overflow channel being configured to allow at least a portion of the coolant discharged from the liquid pump to return to the tank without entering the liquid cavity, and the overflow channel being independent of the return channel.

2. The compression device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined compression time is 30 to 50 seconds.

3. The compression device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined decompression time is 10 to 30 seconds.

4. The compression device of claim 1 , wherein the operator-set treatment time is between 2 and 5 hours.

5. The compression device of claim 1 , wherein the compression system includes an air circuit comprising one or more air pumps, one or more solenoid valves, and one or more pressure switches.

6. 6. The compression device of claim 5, wherein the one or more air pumps are configured to introduce air into the air cavity and the one or more solenoid valves are configured to expel air from the air cavity.

7. The compression device of claim 5 , wherein the one or more pressure switches release air from the air cavity when the pressure in the air cavity exceeds a set pressure.

8. The compression device of claim 1 , wherein the cooling circuit is configured to cool the coolant.

9. The compression device of claim 8 , wherein the cooling circuit is configured to cool the coolant to a predetermined temperature.

10. The compression device of claim 8, wherein the cooling circuit is configured to cool the coolant to a temperature of between 6 and 24°C.

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