The present invention provides an improved inflatable compression dressing
(10) for use in controlling swelling and promoting healing to wounds
subsequent to surgery while allowing visual inspection of the wound
during healing. The dressing comprises a bladder (138) formed by an outer
wall (114) secured to an inner wall (112) to define an elongated,
cup-shaped cavity for receiving an appendage (136); an air supply
delivering air to the bladder; and a sensor monitoring air pressure
within the bladder and indicating said air pressure to an air pressure
control (140). The air pressure control provides air to the bladder at a
rate which substantially matches air leaked from the bladder. Thus, the
air supply inflates the bladder so as to provide uniform air pressure to
the appendage, wherein the appendage is an arm or a leg.