Bachmann F, McKenna R, Meredith P, Carta S.
[Intermittent pneumatic compression of leg and thigh: a new successful method
for the prevention of postoperative thrombosis]
Schweiz Med Wochenschr 1976 Dec 11;106(50):1819-21

In a prospective study, 54 patients undergoing joint-replacement operations were
randomized into a control and a treatment group. In the treatment group low
pressure intermittent compression (Phlebo-Dynastat) to calves and thighs was
started on the day of operation and continued until patients were fully
mobilized. In 34 evaluable patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty the
incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) as determined by venography was 43% in
the control group and 22% in the treatment group (p = 0.18). In 17 patients
undergoing total knee replacement, DVT occurred postoperatively in 70% of the
control group but in none of the treatment group (p = 0.002). The difference
between the control and Phlebo-Dynastat group when comparing all patients was
highly significant (p less than 0.005). Low pressure intermittent venous
compression offers a welcome alternative method of thrombosis prophylaxis in
patients with increased risk of bleeding.