Mobiderm Autofit Garments for Reducing Lower Limb Lymphedema: A Single-Arm Study Exploring Underlying Mechanisms

Background: Lymphedema is a chronic, disabling condition that results from a dysfunctional lymphatic system. The Mobiderm® Autofit device is designed to apply pressure and mobilize lymph to reduce edema and prevent worsening. This study aimed to identify the mechanisms that underlie the limb volume improvements and skin changes that are seen when using the device. Methods: In this single-center exploratory study, patients who had lower limb lymphedema (stage II/III) wore a thigh-high Mobiderm® Autofit device for 48 hours of intensive treatment. Measurements were obtained on Day 1 (D1) and Day 3 (D3) using lymphoscintigraphy, high-frequency ultrasound, a cutometer, and volume calculations. Results: Nine patients (aged 28-72 years) were included. The mean volume of the treated limb fell from 9664.8 ± 2766.2 mL on D1 down to 9097.6 ± 2394.1 mL on D3 (p=0.0039). Lymphoscintigraphy showed that the number of visible lymph nodes increased slightly when the device was put on, which suggests that it facilitated the flow of lymph along the vessels towards the nodes. The radiotracer migrated up the leg more quickly on D3 than on D1, indicating improved lymph flow (although p>0.1). Ultrasound images showed that fewer patients had edema within the hypodermis on D3, which indicates lymphatic drainage from this tissue. The overall skin elasticity was lower on D3 (p=0.039); the net elasticity and viscoelasticity did not change significantly. Conclusion: The Mobiderm® Autofit device can effectively reduce lymphedema over 48 hours. We provide preliminary evidence that the device induces changes in the lymphatic pathway. Keywords Edema distribution; High-frequency ultrasound; Intensive phase treatment; Lymphedema treatment; Limb volume; Lower limb lymphedema; Lymphoscintigraphy; Lymphatic vessels; Skin echogenicity; Mobilizing device