News Release Details

Tactile Medical announces a redesigned Arm-Shoulder garment for patients with upper extremity lymphedema

MINNEAPOLIS, April 11, 2016 — Tactile Medical announces the launch of the Arm-Shoulder garment for the Flexitouch System, a pneumatic compression device (PCD) used to effectively treat lymphedema. The new garment is designed to treat patients with lymphedema in the upper extremities, a condition that causes swelling, pain, reduced range of motion, and reduced quality of life. The new garment is easier to use and accommodates patients with limited range of motion, allowing them to benefit from at-home treatment.

"Based on patient and clinician feedback, we've developed a new Arm-Shoulder garment that combines ease of use and clinical effectiveness in a very patient-friendly design," said Jerry Mattys, CEO of Tactile Medical. "The product utilizes the time-proven technology of the Flexitouch System and is backed by a substantial body of clinical evidence."

The Arm-Shoulder garment is easy for patients to put on and secure with a single fastener, making at-home lymphedema treatment even more accessible.

"Patients report that when they use the Flexitouch System they see great results," said Mattys. "We understand many of our patients have limited mobility due to lymphedema, which is often the after effect of surgery, cancer treatment, or other factors. We are committed to continuous improvement of the Flexitouch System so patients can get the best possible results from their at-home lymphedema treatment."

Lymphedema, which presents as swelling of the limbs and other parts of the body, is a lifelong, progressive, and often debilitating condition that results from damage to, or impairment of, the lymphatic system. This damage is often caused by injury, cancer or cancer treatments such as surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Lymphedema treatment with Flexitouch serves to slow the progression of debilitating symptoms and allow patients to successfully manage their symptoms.

As cancer treatments have advanced, the incidence of lymphedema has risen in the cancer patient population. A recent study, led by researchers from the Stanford Center for Lymphatic and Venous Disorders, showed that lymphedema prevalence among cancer survivors increased 30 percent in the six-year study period. Cancer treatments such as radiation and lymph node removal affect lymphatic function. These treatments are often used with breast cancer patients, which in turn means lymphedema affects approximately 20 percent of breast cancer survivors.

When an at-home treatment is effective, patients are more likely to use the treatment consistently.

"I find that the Flexitouch is the one thing I do that does not get in the way of my life at all," says Janie, a Flexitouch user. "Flexitouch is a fantastic treatment, and for me it has been the best part of my lymphedema disease treatment."

To learn more about the Arm-Shoulder garment and the Flexitouch System visit tactilemedical.com