Should knee-length replace thigh-length graduated compression stockings in the prevention of deep-vein thrombosis?

OBJECTIVE To compare knee-length with thigh-length graduated compression stockings for correct application and rate of compliance when they are prescribed for the prevention of deep-vein thrombosis in surgical patients. METHODOLOGY Patients who were prescribed graduated compression stockings were prospectively studied in three surgical units at Groote Schuur Hospital from February to June 1997. Knee-length stockings were prescribed in the colorectal unit, while the thigh-length variety were prescribed in the hepatobiliary and trauma units. Patients were observed for the correct application and size of stockings, and the presence of compression bands. A total of 72 patients were studied. RESULTS One patient in the knee-length group and 7 patients in the thigh-length group were not wearing their stockings. Twenty-one of 30 patients (70%) in the knee-length group and 15 of 42 (35.7%) in the thigh-length group had correctly applied stockings (P = 0.009). CONCLUSIONS Knee-length are more likely to be correctly applied than thigh-length stockings. Knee-length should replace thigh-length stockings in general surgical patients.