What's the deal with compression stockings?

Did you all have to wear them for surgery?

How long do you have to wear them? Just for surgery? Or for how long after?

Do you have to provide your own?

Thanks !!

I am not sure what you mean. I had some blow up things on my legs while I was in the hospital and I liked them. T hey gave my legs a massage. You are probably talking about something else. Sorry I am not much help...Janie

I had them the day of surgery and the day after..did not have to wear them any longer then that and the doctor did provide them for me.

I don't recall any such device or anything. It's possible they put something like that on me while I was under, but whatever it was it was gone when I woke up.

Compression hose (or support hose) are usually white and fit very tightly over your foot up to your thigh. They usually have a hole made into the top of them so a nurse can check your toes for circulation. They're supposed to prevent blood clots in the legs while you're lying around. People who do a lot of standing also wear them to prevent varicose veins. Some drs. provide them, others don't. They're about $25-30 at a medical supply store.

I had the machine w/the blow-up things (don't know technical name) following surgery. It felt wonderful, like a continual massage. The only problem was I had to have someone "disconnect" me every time I had to go to the bathroom (which was often with the i.v. running all night). I finally asked the nurse if I could just leave them off since I was getting up and walking so much.

The important thing is to start walking and walk as often as you can as soon as possible after any surgery. This will prevent blood clots (which they don't want to travel to your heart) and help get the anesthesia and carbon dioxide worked out of your body.

I had a Flow-tron during my surgery and all other surgeries. I also wear knee hi compression socks when I travel - especially on a plane.

I also have a history of prior DVT/PE so I can't take the chance.

My surgeon who is quite good health and not obese told me he never even does surgery without his due to the blood pooling in your legs anything you stand one place too long, or sit or lying down. My first DVT I got from sitting at the puter too long.

The socks are not pretty but they definitely make your legs feel better if you are prone to ankle/leg swelling. I buy them as gifts these days for people I love. They are well worth the money spent even if they are no fashion statement.

I would not suggest ever flying without them due to 'economy class syndrome'. Many people get DVT/PE's when flying. Even people in good health.

Just my 2 cents.

I also bought a couple of dark pair for my husband. He had an artery removed from his leg, that was used for his open heart surgery repair. His leg swells badly ever since. The socks help so much! They come in different lengths. His come to mid-calf.