Elastic Support of the Lower Limbs in Hospital Patients

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Abstract
Elastic compression of the lower limb was critically evaluated in 105 hospital patients relative to reduction of the venous pool, effect upon venous hemodynamics, and the degree of compression commensurate with maximum reduction of venous stasis. Pressure studies and phlebograms were performed with and without knee-high elastic support of varying compression pressures. It was demonstrated that elastic support of 16 to 20 mm Hg effects significant reduction of the venous pool of the leg with improved venous return. The results of the study strongly suggest that knee-high elastic compression of the limb is effective in combating stasis in the deep veins as well as in the superficial varicose veins, and support its use when stasis is a predominant cause of phlebothrombosis in the confined patient.