USE OF GRADUATED COMPRESSION STOCKINGS IN THE PREVENTION OF DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS IN THE POSTOPERATIVE PERIOD: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a significant postoperative complication associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and adverse clinical outcomes. Among preventive strategies, mechanical methods such as graduated compression stockings are widely used in clinical practice. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of graduated compression stockings in preventing DVT in surgical patients. This is a systematic review conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, with searches performed in PubMed and the Virtual Health Library (BVS). Studies assessing the use of compression stockings, alone or in combination with pharmacological thromboprophylaxis, were included. The results showed that graduated compression stockings provide greater benefit when combined with anticoagulants, particularly in high-risk patients, such as those undergoing major surgery, with prolonged immobilization, or requiring extended prophylaxis. In low-risk patients, the benefits appear to be limited, highlighting the importance of individualized prophylactic strategies. It is concluded that graduated compression stockings are a safe and potentially effective strategy for DVT prevention in the postoperative period and should be considered as part of a multimodal approach.