A Foot Pump to Prevent DVT After Hip Surgery.

Well-known mechanical methods to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) include graded compression stockings and pneumatic compression devices placed between ankle and knee. This study examined a relatively new device, a pump that is secured to the bottom of the foot and inflated at 20-second intervals. This action compresses a venous plexus in the foot, flushing the deep venous system of the leg.

Researchers in the UK randomized 290 patients undergoing total hip replacement to receive either prophylactic low-molecular-weight heparin (enoxaparin) or the foot pump for seven days. On venography at one week, the prevalence of DVT was 18 percent with the foot pump and 13 percent with enoxaparin, a nonsignificant difference. Each group had two clinic…