Low Compression, High Gradient Stockings in Patients with Venous Insufficiency: Effect on the Musculo-Venous Pump, Evaluated by Strain Gauge Plethysmography

In a prospective study 17 patients with superficial venous insufficiency were treated with a high gradient low compression stocking for a period of 6 weeks. The effect upon the musculo-venous pump was evaluated by ambulatory calf strain gauge plethysmography and compared to improvements in symptoms and clinical findings. The immediate effect of the stockings was a significant 22% reduction in venous reflux and 43% increase of the expelled volume. Moreover, an effect after 6 weeks (with the stockings applied during all daytime hours) was found even after the stockings were removed. This reduction of venous reflux of 30% and increase in expelled volume of 29% were statistically significant. Symptoms and objective findings were simultaneously improved. Finally the stockings were found to increase the maximal venous outflow by 27%.