Clinical thromboembolic detterrent stockings application: Are thromboembolic detterrent stockings in practice matching manufacturers application guidelines

BackgroundThromboembolic detterrent (TED) stockings have been shown to be effective in the reduction of thromboembolic events in post operative patients. These manufactured stockings create graduated compression from ankle to calf.AimTo assess whether the manufacturers' recommendations for application were being met in a District general hospital setting and whether this achieved the desired gradient of compression.MethodsWe carried out pressure measurements on 100 legs in post-operative patients and recorded reasons for poorly fitting stockings. Pressure measurements were taken at standard positions around calf and ankle using a pre-calibrated subbandage pressure measuring device.ResultsAbout 20% of stockings were worn incorrectly by patients. Median pressure applied at the ankle was 13 mmHg (range, 6.5–18.5) compared to the manufacturers' intended compression of 18 mmHg. Only 14% of the stockings showed an acceptable gradation of reduced pressure between ankle and calf. About 23% of the stockings exerte...