Preliminary Review of Cold and Active Compression Therapy for Traumatic Calcaneus or Ankle Fractures

Preliminary Efficacy and Cost-effectiveness Analysis of a Cold and Active Intermittent Compression Therapy Technique for Traumatic Calcaneus or Ankle Fractures

This study will examine the initial efficacy and cost-effectiveness of using the cryocompression therapy model both pre-operatively and post-operatively in patients that have recently suffered a traumatic calcaneus or ankle fracture compared to the standard pre-operative RICE therapy procedures.

Initial research has shown that cryocompression therapy applied post-operatively has been effective in reducing recovery time and improving health and pain factors related to patient recovery. However, there has been limited research into how this translates into positive economic outcomes for both the hospital and the patient. In addition, it can be reasonably hypothesized that the use of the cryocompression therapy system before surgery will lead to an increased rate of reduction in swelling necessary to allow proper operative procedures to take place when compared to the standard ice and elevation (RICE) therapy techniques and cryocompression therapy applied only post-operatively. This should lead to decreased hospital costs and possible improved patient outcomes related to recovery. Study Objectives This study will examine the initial efficacy and cost-effectiveness of using the cryocompression therapy model both pre-operatively and post-operatively in patients that have recently suffered a traumatic calcaneus or ankle fracture compared to the standard pre-operative RICE therapy procedures.

Measured from intake to time of surgery (days) and upon discharge from hospital (days). Estimated period of time to be up to 10 days until surgery and up to 7 days after surgery until discharge.

Measured daily while inpatient (approx 2-3 days) and retroactively at all follow-up assessments (2, 8, 16, & 24-weeks post-op)

Reported at baseline, daily while inpatient (approx 2-3 days), and at all follow-up assessments (2, 8, 16, & 24-weeks post-op)

Inclusion Criteria: Patients over 18 years of age Able to provide informed consent Recent calcaneus or ankle fracture requiring fixation Injury is determined (by physician) to be an isolated, closed, low-energy bimalleolar fracture Exclusion Criteria: Unable to provide informed consent History of Dementia or mental instability No recent additional fractures (within one year) at or around injury site Persons with symptoms of any kind of psychosocial disorder Any condition that the clinician feels would contraindicate for the postoperative test or control treatments Any conditions that would contraindicate using the Game Ready If the patient is prevented from transfer to the OR due to reasons other than medically necessary