Use of Custom-made Stockings to Control Postoperative Leg and Foot Edema Following Free Tissue Transfer and External Fixation of Fractures


Unal C., Gercek H.

JOURNAL OF FOOT & ANKLE SURGERY, vol.51, no.2, pp.246-248, 2012 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 51 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2012
  • Doi Number: 10.1053/j.jfas.2011.10.029
  • Journal Name: JOURNAL OF FOOT & ANKLE SURGERY
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.246-248
  • Kocaeli University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Patients with lower extremity trauma treated with free tissue transfer and external fixation of fractures almost always have postoperative edema of the foot and leg. Although compressive elastic stockings have been advised to be worn by patients with venous or lymphatic insufficiency, no such stocking has been described for postoperative use by patients with external fixators. The aim of the present report was to describe a custom-made elastic compression stocking for patients who have undergone soft tissue reconstruction and fracture fixation with external fixators. These custom-made stockings can help to decrease postoperative edema during the nonambulatory and nonweight-bearing ambulatory period. They are easy to apply, affordable, and can be tailored from regular compression stockings according to the needs of the patients. (C) 2012 by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. All rights reserved.