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Evidence summaries

Compression Therapy for Treating Post-Thrombotic Syndrome

Use of intermittent pneumatic compression device may be effective in treating post-thrombotic syndrome compared to a placebo device. Level of evidence: "C"

Comment: The quality of evidence is downgraded by imprecise results (few patients and outcome events) and by indirectness (differences between the outcomes of interest and those reported: only short-term outcomes reported).

Summary

A Cochrane review [Abstract] 1 included 4 studies with a total of 116 subjects on the effectiveness of compression therapy for treatment of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). Meta-analysis was not possible. None of the studies evaluated patient satisfaction.

Two studies investigated the effect of graduated elastic compression stockings (GECS) on improvement of PTS symptoms. One study reported beneficial haemodynamic effects, while the other found no benefits compared to placebo. The studies did not report on compliance rates.

Two studies investigated the effects of intermittent mechanical compression devices. Both reported improvement in PTS severity. Only one study evaluated adverse effects and QoL; although 9% of the participants experienced adverse effects (leg swelling, irritation, superficial bleeding, and skin itching), QoL was improved. Studies did not assess compliance.

    References

    • Azirar S, Appelen D, Prins MH et al. Compression therapy for treating post-thrombotic syndrome. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019;(9):CD004177. [PubMed].

Primary/Secondary Keywords