Muhe E.
[New method of preventing thrombosis: Intermittent sequential high-pressure leg
compression (author's transl)]
[Article in German]
Dtsch Med Wochenschr 1982 Jul 16;107(28):1092-5

The effect of sequential pneumatic leg compression on venous flow velocity was
studied in 25 patients. At the usual pressures of 35-55 mm Hg, venous flow
velocity was only 175% of control value, but 366% when pressures were between 90
and 100 mm Hg. The incidence of postoperative thrombosis was studied on three
groups of patients. In 24 patients, receiving sequential compression prophylaxis
with 90-100 mm Hg, there was one case of thrombosis, while there were three cases
among the 25 patients with 35 mm Hg compression and three in the 25 receiving
5000 unit of heparin three times daily, Sequential intermittent compression with
high pressures, ten compression cycles three times daily, is recommended for all
patients unable to undertake active prophylactic measures. An absolute indication
exists in those patients which can no be mobilised and those in whom there are
additional contraindications to the use of anticoagulants. Sequential compression
is no alternative to antithrombosis stockings. These must be worn from the day of
hospitalisation until discharge, also during the period of pneumatic compression.