The Long-Term Effect of Elastic Compression on the Venous Haemodynamics of the Leg

The long-term haemodynamic effect of elastic compression has been evaluated in 16 patients (20 limbs) with superficial venous incompetence. Ambulatory venous pressure (AVP) and pressure recovery time (RT90) were measured with foot vein canulation. Air-plethysmography was used to measure venous volume, venous reflux and the ejecting capacity of the calf muscle pump, before and after the application of graduated elastic stockings, for 4 weeks. Limbs were tested without the stockings. Elastic compression for 4 weeks produced a significant reduction in the venous volume (P < 0.01), a significant decrease in venous reflux and an increase in the ejecting capacity of the calf muscle pump (P < 0.01). The above changes explain the significant reduction in AVP and prolongation of RT90 (P < 0.01) which was observed. The results indicate that there is a considerable improvement in venous haemodynamics after 4 weeks support with graduated elastic compression.

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