Systematic review on the benefit of graduated compression stockings in the prevention of venous thromboembolism in low-risk surgical patients. (April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Machin, M; Younan, HC; Smith, S; Salim, Safa; Davies, AH; Shalhoub, J
• Is Part Of: Phlebology. Volume 36:Number 3(2021)
• Page Start: 184
• Page End: 193
• Publication Date: 2021-04
• Subjects: Venous thromboembolism -- hospital acquired thrombosis -- graduated compression stockings -- surgical patients; Veins -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 616.14
• DOI: 10.1177/0268355520958590
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0268-3555

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this systematic review is to assess the performance of graduated compression stockings (GCS) in comparison to no venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in the prevention of hospital-acquired thrombosis in low-risk surgical patients undergoing short-stay procedures. Methods: Aligning with PRISMA guidelines, online databases MEDLINE and EMBASE, Cochrane Library® and trial registries were searched. Eligible articles reported the VTE rate in low-risk surgical patients either receiving GCS or no VTE prophylaxis. Results: Narrative synthesis was performed on a single eligible article. The included study arm consisted of participants undergoing knee arthroscopy with the use of GCS alone reporting a total of 29 VTE events (4.4%), 16 of which were asymptomatic DVTs (2.4%). Conclusion: There is a complete lack of evidence to support the use of GCS in the prevention of HAT for low-risk surgical patients. An adequately powered trial is required to provide level-IA evidence to support this practice.