IngentaConnect Above-knee versus below-knee stockings in total knee arthroplasty

Authors: Williams, L.A.¹; Owen, T.D.¹

Source: Annals of The Royal College of Surgeons of England, Volume 88, Number 3, May 2006 , pp. 302-305(4)

Publisher: The Royal College of Surgeons of England

Abstract:

INTRODUCTION: Graduated compression stockings are frequently used following arthroplasty surgery for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. There are often strongly held beliefs regarding whether below-knee or above-knee stockings should be used in total knee joint replacement. Many surgeons argue that below-knee stockings are more likely to induce wound complications because of increased swelling above the stocking and the elastic causing localised pressure on the wound.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: This study is a prospective comparison of above and below-knee stockings in patients undergoing total knee joint replacement. A total of 50 patients were recruited and studied - 23 patients in the above-knee stocking group and 24 in the below-knee group. Swelling around the knee was measured over the course of an in-patient stay, together with wound complication rates and patients' preference.

RESULTS: No statistical difference was found between the groups and no difference in wound complication rates was determined.

CONCLUSIONS: Below-knee stockings are safe following total knee replacement and are preferred by patients.

Keywords: STOCKINGS; COMPRESSION; ARTHROPLASTY; KNEE; CLINICAL TRIAL

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1308/003588406X98676

Affiliations: 1: Department of Orthopaedics, Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Ynysmaerdy, Llantrisant, UK