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.