Clark-Pearson DL, Synan IS, Hinshaw WM, Coleman RE, Creasman WT.
Prevention of postoperative venous thromboembolism by external pneumatic calf
compression in patients with gynecologic malignancy.
Obstet Gynecol 1984 Jan;63(1):92-8

One hundred seven patients undergoing major surgery for gynecologic malignancy
participated in a controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of pneumatic calf
compression in the prevention of postoperative deep venous thrombosis and
pulmonary embolism. External pneumatic calf compression was applied
intraoperatively and for five postoperative days. All patients were prospectively
screened for deep venous thrombosis with impedance plethysmography and
125I-fibrinogen leg counting. Deep venous thrombosis and/or pulmonary emboli were
detected in 18 of 52 control group patients (34.6%) whereas in seven of 55
(12.7%) of those treated with external pneumatic calf compression (P less than
.005). External pneumatic calf compression was most effective during the first
five days postoperatively and also reduced the incidence of deep venous
thrombosis in patients at highest risk. When applied during surgery and for five
days postoperatively, external pneumatic calf compression significantly reduces
the incidence of postoperative venous thrombosis.