External pneumatic compression therapy for DVT prophylaxis

Thromboembolic disease is a common cause of perioperative death. Emphasis should be placed on prophylactic treatment and therefore this product focus looks at intermittent pneumatic therapy in the form of the Flowtron DVT garment from Huntleigh Healthcare. While anticoagulant therapy is the main prophylactic method for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) the benefits of intermittent pneumatic compression warrant serious consideration. Responsibility for DVT prophylaxis, patient assessment and the monitoring of the effectiveness of the prophylactic therapy lie with the nursing staff. A reliable assessment tool should be used in conjunction with clinical judgment and accurate documentation.