The Effect of Elastic Compression on Calf Muscle Pump Function

Abstract

The haemodynamic effect of elastic compression has been evaluated in 23 patients (26 limbs) with superficial venous incompetence. Ambulatory venous pressure (AVP) and pressure recovery time (RT₉₀) were measured with foot vein canulation. Also the functional venous volume (VV) (venous capacitance), venous reflux and the ejecting capacity of the calf muscle pump were measured with air-plethysmography. The above measurements were made with and without a graduated compression elastic stocking.

Elastic compression produced a significant reduction in VV (P < 0.01). Also a significant decrease in venous reflux and increase in the ejecting capacity of the calf muscle pump (P < 0.01). The above alterations explain the significant reduction in AVP and prolongation of RT₉₀ (P < 0.01) which was observed as a result of elastic compression.

The measurements made in this study demonstrate in an objective and quantitative way the beneficial effect of elastic stockings in patients with superficial venous incompetence and how this effect is achieved.