PREVENTION OF DEEP-VEIN THROMBOSIS, WITH PARTICULAR REFERENCE TO MECHANICAL METHODS OF PREVENTION

  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • review article
    • Vol. 81  (2) , 228-235
Abstract
Mechanical methods of preventing deep vein thrombosis were surveyed. The best means of preventing venous stasis was by intermittent compression of the legs. Use of intermittent compression will prevent isotopically detectable deep venous thrombosis in 82% of patients and in malignancy in 90% of patients. The only other prophylactic measure of comparable effectiveness is administration of low-dose s.c. heparin. Intermittent compression need only be applied during the operation and is cheap, foolproof and safe. Intermittent compression acts by squeezing empty the soleal sinuses and large valve pockets in the major veins in which thrombi form while venous flow is slowed during operation. A combination of intermittent compression and administration of low-dose s.c. heparin was no more effective than is intermittent compression alone.

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