The Long-Term Effect of Elastic Compression on the Venous Haemodynamics of the Leg

The long-term haemodynamic effect of elastic compression has been evaluated in 16 patients (20 limbs) with superficial venous incompetence. Ambulatory venous pressure (AVP) and pressure recovery time (RT₉₀) were measured with foot vein canulation. Air-plethysmography was used to measure venous volume, venous reflux and the ejecting capacity of the calf muscle pump, before and after the application of graduated elastic stockings, for 4 weeks. Limbs were tested without the stockings.

Elastic compression for 4 weeks produced a significant reduction in the venous volume (P < 0.01), a significant decrease in venous reflux and an increase in the ejecting capacity of the calf muscle pump (P < 0.01). The above changes explain the significant reduction in AVP and prolongation of RT₉₀ (P < 0.01) which was observed.

The results indicate that there is a considerable improvement in venous haemodynamics after 4 weeks support with graduated elastic compression.