[Intermittent pneumatic compression of leg and thigh: a new successful method for the prevention of postoperative thrombosis].

In a prospective study, 54 patients undergoing joint-replacement operations were randomized into a control and a treatment group. In the treatment group low pressure intermittent compression (Phlebo-Dynastat) to calves and thighs was started on the day of operation and continued until patients were fully mobilized. In 34 evaluable patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty the incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) as determined by venography was 43% in the control group and 22% in the treatment group (p = 0.18). In 17 patients undergoing total knee replacement, DVT occurred postoperatively in 70% of the control group but in none of the treatment group (p = 0.002). The difference between the control and Phlebo-Dynastat group when comparing all patients was highly significant (p less than 0.005). Low pressure intermittent venous compression offers a welcome alternative method of thrombosis prophylaxis in patients with increased risk of bleeding.