Effect of Graduated Compression Stockings on Deep Venous Blood Velocity

Abstract

Graduated compression stockings (GCS) are widely used to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE) caused by prolonged immobility owing to lower limb venous stasis. The effects of GCS on venous blood velocity have not yet been established. We investigated whether deep vein blood flow increased with the use of properly fitted GCS (below-knee type). Fifteen healthy adult participants were examined, and Doppler ultrasound measurements of popliteal venous blood flow were recorded on one leg over a 40-minute period. The primary outcome was time-averaged peak velocity (PV) in the popliteal vein at 20 and 40 min, and the secondary outcome was the change in vein diameter (VD). Results: PV of the popliteal vein increased with the use of GCS at both 20 and 40 min as compared to that before using GCS (6.4 ± 2.8 cm/s to 7.5 ± 3.1 cm/s at 20 min and to 7.5 ± 2.5 cm/s at 40 min) (P<0.001). Moreover, VD decreased significantly, after GCS use (8.8 ± 1.7 mm to 8.3 ± 1.8 mm at 20 min and to 8.3 ± 2.0 mm at 40 min) (P=0.034). GCS use increases lower limb venous blood velocity by decreasing VD during prolonged seated immobility, and it may reduce the risk of VTE in cases of prolonged seated immobility.