When intermittent compression devices (ICDs) are used to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE) they can cause pressure sores in a selected group of women, undergoing long operations. A prospective audit pre and post intervention showed a reduced risk with an alternative device, without increasing the risk of VTE.
ComerotaAJ, ChouhanV, HaradaRN1997The fibrinolytic effects of intermittent pneumatic compression: mechanism of enhanced fibrinolysisAnnals of Surgery226(3) 306–14
2.
EppsteinerRW, ShinJJ, JohnsonJ, van DamRM2010Mechanical compression versus subcutaneous heparin therapy in postoperative and post-trauma patients: a systematic review and meta-analysisWorld Journal of Surgery34(1) 10–19
3.
FreedmanKB, BrookenthalKR, FitzgeraldRHJr, WilliamsS, LonnerJH2000A meta-analysis of thromboembolic prophylaxis following elective total hip arthroplastyJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery82A (7) 929–38
4.
HandollHH, FarrarMJ, McBirnieJ2002Heparin, low molecular weight heparin and physical methods for preventing deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism following surgery for hip fracturesCochrane Database Systematic Reviews (4): CD000305
5.
PittoRP, YoungS2008Foot pumps without graduated compression stockings for prevention of deep-vein thrombosis in total joint replacement: efficacy, safety and patient compliance.A comparative, prospective clinical trial International Orthopaedics32(3) 331–36
6.
UrbankovaJ, QuirozR, KucherN, GoldhaberSZ2005Intermittent pneumatic compression and deep vein thrombosis prevention.A meta-analysis in postoperative patients Thrombosis Haemostasis94(6) 1181–185
