Post-thrombotic syndrome of the lower limbs

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is associated with the development of post-thrombotic syndrome, which is characterised by chronic dependent swelling and pain, discomfort on walking and skin discolouration. Symptom severity can vary over time; the most severe manifestation is a lower-leg venous ulcer—for information on prevention, assessment and intervention for venous leg ulcers, see Venous leg ulcers.

If post-thrombotic syndrome develops, graduated compression stockings reduce the patient’s symptoms. These stockings may also reduce the risk of developing post-thrombotic syndrome in patients with a lower-limb venous thromboembolism.

To be effective, graduated compression stockings should provide 30 to 40 mmHg pressure at the ankle and extend to just below the knee. An experienced professional should fit the stockings because not all types of support stockings provide sufficient pressureKahn, 2014.