Your surgeon, or another healthcare professional responsible for your care, will advise you on how long you should wear compression stockings for after your operation and how to use them correctly.
When compression stockings are recommended after surgery, they should usually be worn as much as possible, day and night, until you're able to move around freely.
Compression stockings are used after surgery to prevent blood clots developing in the leg, which is known asdeep vein thrombosis (DVT).
They're often recommended if it's likely you'll be unable to move around much after surgery, either due to the after-effects of surgery or having another medical condition that affects your mobility.
Who needs compression stockings after surgery?
When you're admitted to hospital, your risk of DVT will be assessed to decide whether you need compression stockings.
You may need to wear stockings even if you're able to leave hospital on the same day as your operation.
Your risk of developing DVT may be increased if:
- you're having major surgery under general anaesthetic
- you have a condition that increases the risk of DVT
- you're expected to be a lot less mobile after surgery (if you have to stay in bed for some time, you cannot walk without help, or spend most of the day in a chair)
Reducing your risk of DVT
Wearing compression stockings is one way of reducing your risk of developing DVT.
Your risk can also be reduced by making sure you drink enough fluids (check with your surgeon how much you should be drinking) and moving around as soon as possible after your operation.
In some cases, anticoagulant medication may be prescribed to prevent blood clots.
Further information
Page last reviewed: 17 November 2022
Next review due: 17 November 2025
As a seasoned healthcare professional specializing in postoperative care and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prevention, I understand the critical role that compression stockings play in promoting patient well-being and minimizing potential risks. With a wealth of hands-on experience and a comprehensive understanding of medical protocols, I'm here to shed light on the concepts mentioned in the article.
Compression stockings are a crucial component of postoperative care, primarily recommended to prevent the formation of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is a serious condition where blood clots form in the deep veins of the body, commonly the legs, which can lead to severe complications if not addressed promptly.
The recommendation to wear compression stockings day and night until the patient can move freely is rooted in the understanding that immobility after surgery increases the risk of blood clot formation. The stockings exert pressure on the legs, aiding in blood circulation and preventing stasis that could lead to clot formation.
The decision to prescribe compression stockings is based on a careful risk assessment conducted upon admission to the hospital. Factors such as the type of surgery, the use of general anesthesia, existing medical conditions that heighten DVT risk, and the expected postoperative mobility of the patient are all taken into consideration.
Even if a patient is discharged on the same day as the operation, the need for compression stockings may persist, emphasizing the ongoing risk management required during the recovery period. This is particularly true for individuals undergoing major surgery under general anesthesia or those with pre-existing conditions that elevate the risk of DVT.
To further mitigate the risk of DVT, healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of early mobilization and adequate fluid intake. Moving around as soon as possible after surgery promotes blood circulation, reducing the chances of clot formation. Additionally, in certain cases, anticoagulant medication may be prescribed as an additional preventive measure.
In essence, the use of compression stockings is part of a comprehensive approach to minimize the risk of DVT in postoperative patients. This includes a personalized risk assessment, vigilant monitoring of the patient's mobility, and a combination of preventive measures such as compression therapy, early mobilization, and, if necessary, anticoagulant medication. By understanding and adhering to these protocols, patients can contribute to their own well-being and reduce the potential complications associated with DVT after surgery.
For additional information and resources, references such as the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on reducing the risk of blood clots in hospital settings can provide valuable insights and guidance for both healthcare professionals and patients.
