Merino wool graduated compression stocking increases lower limb venous blood flow: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Vascular Medicine
• Medical Textiles
• Thrombosis Prevention

Background:

• Graduated compression stockings are a non-pharmacological method to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).
• A novel merino wool, double-layer, below-knee graduated compression stocking was developed to mitigate DVT and PE risks associated with air travel immobility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a novel merino wool graduated compression stocking in enhancing lower limb venous blood flow.
• To assess the impact of the stocking on reducing venous stasis and lower limb swelling.

Main Methods:

• Twenty healthy adults participated in a randomized study.
• Popliteal venous blood flow was measured using Doppler ultrasound over 120 minutes.
• Primary outcome: peak systolic velocity; Secondary outcomes: mean flow velocity, total volume flow, cross-sectional area, and limb circumference changes.

Main Results:

• Stocking use increased popliteal vein peak systolic velocity by 24% (P<0.001) at 120 minutes.
• Significant increases in mean flow velocity and total volume flow were observed.
• Stocking use led to significant reductions in ankle and calf circumference (P=0.021 and P=0.011, respectively).

Conclusions:

• The novel merino wool compression stocking effectively increases lower limb venous blood flow during immobility.
• The stocking is likely to reduce the risk of DVT and PE in prolonged seated immobility scenarios like air travel.
• The observed reduction in swelling suggests potential utility in managing chronic venous insufficiency and lymphedema.