Thigh-length versus below-knee compression elastic stockings for prevention of the postthrombotic syndrome in patients with proximal-venous thrombosis: a randomized trial

Abstract Although below-knee compression elastic stockings (CES) are effective for the prevention of the postthrombotic syndrome (PTS), a substantial number of patients with deep venous thrombosis still develop PTS. In the present open-label, randomized clinical trial, we compared thigh-length with below-knee CES for the prevention of PTS. A total of 267 patients with the first episode of proximal deep venous thrombosis were randomized to wear either thigh-length or below-knee CES for 2 years. After 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months, they were assessed for PTS manifestations according to the Villalta scale. PTS developed in 44 (32.6%) of the 135 patients randomized to thigh-length CES and in …