Cardinal Health

Preventing Venous Thromboembolism: A Healthcare Professional Guide to Intervention 20 Graduated Compression Stockings (GCS). Mechanism of Action. GCS provide graduated pressure pattern to the legs, delivering 18mmHg at the ankle which decreases to 8mmHg at the upper thigh (thigh length GCS), or decreases from 18mmHg at the ankle to 14mmHg at the popliteal vein (knee length GCS). This gradient pressure helps to increase blood flow back to the heart. Research has shown that when GCS are used on moderate risk surgical patients they reduce the risk of a DVT by 68%. 39 T.E.D.™ Anti-Embolism Stocking is a trademarked brand of graduated compression stocking and is the only GCS proven to reduce venous distension which can lead to vessel wall damage and can occur as a result of surgery and hospitalisation. 40 Mechanism of Action Stasis Prevents distal trapping and ensures clearance behind valve cusps/soleal sinuses Increases blood flow velocity Reduces venous stasis Maximises blood flow Vessel Wall Damage Reduces venous distension Prevents vessel wall damage by reducing risk of micro-tears from venous dilatation following smooth muscle relaxants e.g. General anaesthesia The T.E.D.™ Addresses Two Components of Virchow's Triad Vessel Wall Damage Coagulation Changes Stasis Virchow’s Triad T.E.D.™ increases femoral vein blood flow velocity by 138% over baseline. 41 T.E.D.™ reduces venous distention by 48% . 40 Fitting should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. To ensure correct fit, correct measurement is essential.