Moser G, Krahenbuhl B, Barroussel R, Bene JJ, Donath A, Rohner A.
Mechanical versus pharmacologic prevention of deep venous thrombosis.
Surg Gynecol Obstet 1981 Apr;152(4):448-50

The prevention postoperatively of deep venous thrombosis was studied using three
different regimens in 227 patients undergoing surgical procedures. Seventy-six
patients received 5,000 units of heparin subcutaneously and 0.5 milligrams of
dihydroergotamine twice a day. In 76 patients, intermittent pneumatic compression
of the legs was applied preoperatively and postoperatively with active
physiotherapy. The last 75 patients received subcutaneously 5,000 units of
heparin each eight hours. Systematic deep venous thrombosis detection was carried
out using both the 125I fibrinogen test and the Doppler method, being confirmed
by phlebography if positive. The 125I fibrinogen test proved to be more sensitive
and more specific. The incidence of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism
were comparable in the groups, mechanical prophylaxis being as effective as the
two other regimens. No side-effects were noted with the use of intermittent
compression boots. A venoconstricting agent associated with heparin may permit
smaller doses with the same prophylactic effect.