Conclusion
Thigh-length, calf-length, and foot external sequential pneumatic compression devices effectively increased quantitative blood flow volume and velocity in the deep and superficial saphenous venous systems. Statistically, the devices performed equally well. In patients who had had total knee arthroplasty, muscle activity did not increase blood flow volume or velocity more than the external compression devices did, though the reverse was true in healthy volunteers not operated on. External sequential pneumatic compression devices are supported as effective in prevention of deep venous thrombosis after total knee arthroplasty.
The print version of this article was originally certified for CME credit. For accreditation details, contact the publisher. Southern Orthopaedic Association, 35 Lakeshore Dr. Birmingham, AL 35209, phone (205) 945-1840.
We thank Acuson Corporation for access to their ultrasonographic software.
Reprint AddressReprint requests to David C. Markel, MD, Providence Hospital, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, 22250 Providence Dr, Suite 401, Southfield, MI 48075.
J South Orthop Assoc. 2002;11(1) © 2002 Southern Medical Association
Cite this: Effect of External Sequential Compression Devices on Femoral Venous Blood Flow - Medscape - Mar 01, 2002.
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