THE EFFECT OF ELASTIC STOCKINGS ON THE ELASTICITY OF VARICOSE-VEINS

The aim of this study was to establish the long-term effect of graduat ed elastic compression on venous elasticity in patients with superfici al or deep venous disease and to determine the possible relationship b etween elasticity and the duration of the disease. The elastic modulus of 29 patients, 19 with superficial vein incompetence and 10 with dee p vein incompetence was assessed by the simultaneous measurement of ca lf volume (determined using strain gauge) and venous pressure (obtaine d via a dorsal foot vein) during venous occlusion. The measurements we re obtained before and after 4 weeks of elastic compression stockings. The elastic modulus K, was defined as stress/strain when the veins we re full and was calculated from the pressure/volume relationship. The results show a clear difference in elasticity before and after elastic stockings. Two groups of patients were identified: group 1 with incre ased elasticity and group 2 with decreased elasticity. There was a neg ative linear relationship (r=0.88) between increase in elasticity afte r treatment and duration of venous disease.