Graduated Compression Stockings (GCS) Pilot Substudy

Graduated Compression Stockings (GCS) for Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism in Patients Who Have Major Surgery: Pilot Study Assessing Feasibility of Adding This Evaluation to the PeriOperative ISchemic Evaluation-2 Trial (POISE-2 Trial)

This is a pilot substudy to the PeriOperative ISchemic Evaluation-2 Trial (POISE-2), to assess the feasibility of adding graduated compression stockings (GCS) to POISE-2 as an intervention.

Objective: To determine if thigh-level graduated compression stockings (below-knee graduated compression stockings may be used if thigh level graduated compression stockings are not feasible, such as after knee surgery), started before surgery and worn until discharge and for a minimum of 10 days (whichever is longer), reduce symptomatic venous thromboembolism (proximal deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) in the 30 days after surgery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Randomized to PeriOperative ISchemic Evaluation-2 Trial (POISE-2 Trial)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unable to wear a graduated compression stockings on a leg that has been operated on (e.g., below knee skin grafting)
• Leg has not been operated on and graduated compression stockings cannot be worn on either leg (e.g. bilateral leg amputations or skin ulceration, allergy to material in the graduated compression stockings)
• Graduated compression stockings cannot be fitted because the patient's legs are too big, or too small (not compatible with manufacturer's recommendations)
• The responsible physician/nurse judges that graduated compression stockings are contraindicated because of: i) decreased circulation in the legs as evidenced by very pale, cyanotic, or gangrenous conditions; or ii) risk of stocking-induced skin necrosis due to an established sensory neuropathy with numbness to touch.