Theiss W, Haas S.
[Principles of physical prevention of thrombosis]
[Article in German]
Langenbecks Arch Chir 1986;369:459-66

Physical methods of prophylaxis against deep vein thrombosis aim to counteract the
stasis of venous blood flow that occurs during immobilisation. Prospective
randomized studies have documented that perioperative electrical calf
stimulation, intermittent pneumatic compression, and graduated compression
stockings effectively reduce the frequency of post-operative deep-vein
thromboses. However, up to date it has not been proved that they also reduce the
incidence of fatal pulmonary embolism, and so these physical methods represent no
valid alternative to the pharmacological methods of prophylaxis against
thromboembolic events. Their use is justified, however, when the pharmacological
agents are contraindicated, and as an adjunct to the pharmacological methods.