Objectification of compression therapy haemodynamic effect by means of light reflex rheography

Light reflex rheography (LRR) is one of the non-invasive diagnostic methods which makes it possible to examine venous haemodynamics. Through the use of this method we wanted to prove the positive influence of compression therapy on varices of the lower extremities in the 2nd degree chronic insufficiency. In all, 32 patients were examined (39 extremities), and evaluations were done on them of the initial venous refilling time-Ti, i.e. a segment of the LRR curve during the first three seconds after the cessation of muscle work (12 dorsal flexions sitting). Measurements were made without stockings and with the use of the 2nd compression class stockings made by Loana and with the use of Cambren the 1st compression class stockings. With the 1st compression class stockings, measurements were made with one and two stockings simultaneously. The arithmetic mean of the values measured in the individual groups was evaluated by Student's t-test. Our results confirmed the anticipated prolongation of the initial time (Ti) segment in the monitored patients, even when the 1st class Cambren C stockings were used. Especially when two of these stockings were used simultaneously, the Ti period was fully comparable to the Ti values when the 2nd class compression stockings were used. It has been demonstrated that when two lower compression class stockings are used simultaneously, there is a significantly increased compression effect and an improvement of the function parameters, even in patients with varices and the 2nd degree chronic venous insufficiency.