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Breg DVT Guardian Portable Pneumatic Compression (Post-Op/Recovery) - $70 (Metairie)
3017 N. Causeway near Veterans
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This unit is not covered by Medicare. See below. I paid $150 new from my surgeon and that was a good price.
I am selling a **Breg DVT Guardian** portable pneumatic compression system. This is a medical-grade device designed to prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and improve blood circulation. It is excellent for recovery after surgery (knee replacement, ACL, ankle, etc.) or for use during long travel to prevent blood clots. It is battery operated/rechargeable.
Unlike older machines that tether you to the wall with tubes, this unit is completely cordless and battery-operated, allowing you to move around freely while wearing it.
**Key Features:**
* **Portable & Cordless:** No air tubes or cords to trip over.
* **Dual-Chamber Compression:** Provides optimal blood flow stimulation.
* **Long Battery Life:** Rated for up to 20 hours of use on a single charge.
* **Adjustable:** Velcro straps make it easy to fit various calf sizes comfortably.
* **User Friendly:** Simple one-button operation.
**Included:**
* Original Breg DVT Guardian Compression Wraps - Two (2) of them
* Small Recharge Unit
* Original Box with instructions
The item is clean and in great working condition. [Only used for 2 weeks during my post-op recovery].
**Terms:**
Cash
MSRP:** These units are often expensive when billed to insurance but sell for less on the secondary market. Check eBay "Sold" listings (usually between $70–$100).
MEDICARE EXPLANATION
Medicare generally denies coverage for the Breg DVT Guardian (and similar home devices) for post-operative recovery due to a specific classification rule regarding "prevention" versus "treatment."
Here is the breakdown of why it is not covered:
1. It is Classified as "Preventive," Not "Treatment"
Medicare Part B covers Durable Medical Equipment (DME) primarily to treat an existing illness or injury (such as a pump for existing lymphedema or chronic ulcers).
Because you are using this device to prevent a blood clot (DVT) that you do not yet have, Medicare classifies it as a "Preventive Service."
While Medicare covers some preventive screenings (like colonoscopies), HCPCS code E0676 (the billing code for this device) is statutorily excluded from the DME benefit because it is considered a preventive item rather than a treatment for an active condition.
2. Blood Thinners are the "Standard of Care"
Medicare's guidelines state that the standard medical necessity for preventing clots is pharmaceutical anticoagulation (blood thinners like Aspirin, Xarelto, or Eliquis).
If you are capable of taking blood thinners, Medicare deems the mechanical pump "not medically necessary."
Even if your doctor prefers the pump to avoid the side effects of blood thinners, Medicare usually will not pay for the device as an alternative.
3. Hospital vs. Home
Medicare pays for these devices while you are inside the hospital as part of the bundled payment for your surgery. However, once you are discharged to go home, they expect you to be mobile enough or on medication to prevent clots, making the home device an "out-of-pocket" convenience item in their eyes.