There are at least two mechanisms by which the ArtAssist® device improves blood flow. First, by compressing all the tissues below the knee, a large volume of venous blood is emptied with the venous pressure dropping close to zero. Arterial pressure is unchanged by compression; therefore, the increased arterial-venous pressure gradient results in greater arterial inflow.

The increased pressure gradient alone does not account for the large blood flow increases and large end-diastolic velociy shown above. A second mechanism for action involves the endothelium. This structure is recently seen as playing an important role in controlling peripheral resistance. Endothelial release of NO causes vasodilation and likely stimulates collateral formation when used over several months.


For additional information, case reports and references - please visit ACI Medical's main web site at www.acimedical.com.