TAFA HealthCare Corporation, treating the human condition since 1987.  We are a patient advocacy resource providing information regarding post mastectomy, post lumpectomy, post radiation therapy, post pelvic surgery and lower extremity lymphedema pumps.

To learn more, please call and ask for our helpful Lymphedema Pump Consultant.

Just fill in the information by clicking on  Contact us!  (Or email: tafa@tafahealthcare.com) Our office will reply as soon as possible.

In a hurry? Call us!  Phone: 1 800 464 4798 

Lymphedema pumps may only be dispensed by order of your physician...

After you and your physician have decided in-home treatment using a lymphedema pump is best for you, call us at: 1 800 464 4798. We are experts regarding the documentation and claim submission requirements for Medicare, major medical insurance carriers or for self-purchase.

Medicare and major insurance carriers recognize pumps as safe and effective for the treatment of upper and lower extremity lymphedema.

As your advocate, we will work on behalf of you and your physician with your insurance case manager to make certain that you receive all medical benefits for which you are entitled.

Expect us to work within the reimbursement scope of your insurance plan’s benefits, even if we are out of your network.

Due to federal law requirements it is prohibited to purchase a lymphedema pump on-line. Order may be placed by calling our helpful, healthcare personnel.

Benefits of Home Lymphedema Pump Therapy, in Patient's own words...

Click on Patient Testimonials

Sequential pumps with calibrated gradient pressure have proven to be the best devices for reducing the lymphatic fluid from the limb in a comfortable and efficient manner. These pumps function in much the same manner as the body does by utilizing the "muscle pump". The body uses various muscle groups to move the lymphatic fluid through the channels. Unlike the vascular system, the lymphatic system does not have a built-in pump. The vascular system has the heart to pump the blood through the body. The lymphatic system relies on the muscle groups to rhythmically move the fluid through the body.

How long do I use the pump?

A treatment plan is determined by the severity of your symptoms. As prescribed by their doctor patients may use the pump 2 hours daily or as tolerated. It is more advantageous to pump in the evening before bedtime. If the patient needs to break up treatment they should divide it into two sessions twice daily, one hours in the morning and one hours in the evening before bedtime (Or use as directed by your physician). No changes in therapy should be made without authorization from the patient’s physician.

What is the application of the pump for treating ulcers and open wounds?

The pumps can be used on patients with venous ulcers or open wounds as long as there are no signs of infection or cellulitis. The wound or ulcer must be covered with a sterile dressing material to catch any fluid forced out of the site. If an infection occurs you should never put the pump on a patient or massage the limb as this will move the infected fluid back into the body.

How are compression garments used in treating Lymphedema?

Compression garments are specially designed to maintain and support the limb, not to reduce its size. Garments must be applied in the morning to prevent gravity from pulling fluid down into the limb. If this happens the garment will trap the fluid and the garment will not fit comfortably. The patient should use rubber gloves to help in the application of the garment, as these will provide resistance. Garments should be worn daily and removed at night. Compression garments are available in standard and custom styles. There are several companies to choose from with the final choice usually coming down to cosmetics and cost. Garments usually last about 6 months, at which time it is necessary to be re-fitted.

The patient should be re-measured each time a new garment is ordered to account for any changes in the size of the limb, (larger or smaller). The garments are machine washable but seem to last longer when hand washed. The patient will know it is time to get re-fitted when they notice that their limb tends to swell slightly at the end of the day or they notice any signs of stretching in the garment fabric. Recent Medicare rulings require that this type of therapy (custom garments not mandatory) be tried for 30 days and not be fully effective before pump therapy is approved for use.

How important is hygiene for Lymphedema patients?

The patient must be taught meticulous skin care especially with the edematous limb. Because of the increased fluid levels under the skin, the skin cannot resist rips and tears in the same manner as nonedematous skin. Any breakdown in the integrity of the skin results in susceptibility to bacteria, infection and cellulitis, the most serious of complications facing the patient. Teach the patient to treat all cuts, burns, bruises, hangnails, ingrown toenails, ingrown hairs, razor rashes, blisters, scrapes, mosquito bites, etc., as potential sites for infection. Should the patient notice any signs or symptoms of infection or cellulitis they should contact their doctor immediately. Delay in treatment will enable the infection to spread to other areas throughout the body. (See "Precautions" page for details).

Can the pump be used on pregnant women?

Some pregnant women will develop lymphedema lasting the entire term of their pregnancy, but which disappears when the baby is born. However, others can continue to have a problem with edema even after delivery. The patient should wear compression pantyhose and elevate their limbs as often as possible. Using a pump during pregnancy appears not to present any known adverse effects. Always check with your doctor for any discomfort. 

A Free Lymphedema Patient Pamphlet (Click here)