title: Above-knee versus below-knee stockings in total knee arthroplasty.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Graduated compression stockings are frequently used following arthroplasty surgery for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis. There are often strongly held beliefs regarding whether below-knee or above-knee stockings should be used in total knee joint replacement. Many surgeons argue that below-knee stockings are more likely to induce wound complications because of increased swelling above the stocking and the elastic causing localised pressure on the wound.
  
  
  METHODS
  This study is a prospective comparison of above and below-knee stockings in patients undergoing total knee joint replacement. A total of 50 patients were recruited and studied - 23 patients in the above-knee stocking group and 24 in the below-knee group. Swelling around the knee was measured over the course of an in-patient stay, together with wound complication rates and patients' preference.
  
  
  RESULTS
  No statistical difference was found between the groups and no difference in wound complication rates was determined.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Below-knee stockings are safe following total knee replacement and are preferred by patients.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedics, Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Ynysmaerdy, Llantrisant, UK. Lisa@beer-sheba.freeserve.co.uk
authors.forename: L A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Williams
authors.forename: T D
authors.initials: TD
authors.lastname: Owen
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D019645:Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee; D001458:Bandages / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D020246:Venous Thrombosis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D014945:Wound Healing