Soderdahl DW, Henderson SR, Hansberry KL.
A comparsion of intermittent pneumatic compression of the calf and whole leg in
preventing deep venous thrombosis in urological surgery.
J Urol 1997 May;157(5):1774-6

Department of Radiology, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, Washington 98431, USA.

PURPOSE: Intermittent pneumatic compression of the calf and/or thigh effectively
decreases the incidence of deep venous thrombosis and other thrombotic sequelae
but clinical data comparing these modalities are currently lacking. MATERIALS AND
METHODS: A total of 90 patients undergoing major urological surgery was randomly
assigned to receive calf length or thigh length pneumatic compression for
antithrombotic prophylaxis. Duplex ultrasound of the lower extremities was
performed preoperatively and twice postoperatively to evaluate for deep venous
thrombosis. Health care providers in the operating room, recovery room and ward
were asked to compare the compression systems, and a cost analysis was performed.
RESULTS: A total of 47 patients wore the thigh length sequential pneumatic
sleeves and 43 wore calf length uniform compression systems. A pulmonary embolus
without evidence of deep venous thrombosis was detected in 1 patient (2%) using
the thigh length system. A thrombus was detected in the common femoral vein by
duplex ultrasonography in 1 patient (2%) with the calf length system. Nursing
personnel found the calf length sleeves easier to apply and more comfortable by
patient account but they were satisfied with both systems. There was a
significant cost savings with the calf length pneumatic compression system.
CONCLUSIONS: Calf and thigh length pneumatic compression systems similarly
decrease the risk of deep venous thrombosis in patients undergoing urological
surgery. The calf length system has the added advantage of being less expensive
and easier to use.