How Do Anti-Embolism Stockings Work?
Anti-embolism stockings are a specific subset of compression hosiery, generally used for patients confined to bed for recovery. But what exactly makes them different from other products, and who should wear them? Below, we explain what an embolism is, why anti-embolism stockings are different and how anti-embolism stockings work.
What is an embolism?
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a disorder that includes deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein—usually in the lower leg, thigh or pelvis—while pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a clot breaks loose and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs.
A pulmonary embolism prevents oxygen from reaching the lungs, so it can be life-threatening. Preventing DVT so there are no blood clots to break free is an important step to heading off a pulmonary embolism before it can even start. The risk of either condition is greatest after a major event such as surgery or injury, which is why anti-embolism stockings are often recommended for patients recovering after an operation.
What are anti-embolism stockings?
Both anti-embolism stockings and compression gear use the same mechanism, with tight sleeves of fabric that encourage the blood to flow, thus discouraging the formation of a clot. However, compression socks come in a very wide range of levels—from 5 mmHg to 60 mmHg—while anti-embolism stockings top out at about 18 mmHg. This is because anti-embolism stockings are meant to maintain proper venous response in patients, rather than address venous issues that are already present.
While some people may use the terms “anti-embolism stockings” and “graduated compression hosiery” interchangeably, anti-embolism stockings have a very specific and limited purpose. They are only meant to be used by bedridden patients with proper venous action, and are not cleared for ambulatory patients (i.e., those who will be walking around a lot). Patients who are bed ridden are at increased risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Your doctor will be able to advise you if anti-embolism stockings will be necessary after a surgery—and if you’re not a patient but still want the benefits of compression therapy, you should opt for regular compression socks.
How do anti-embolism stockings work?
Graduated compression products such as anti-embolism stockings apply graduated pressure on your extremities, starting with the greater pressure towards your feet and ankles and lessening as it moves up your leg. This pressure gradient gently compresses the veins in your legs, keeping them from expanding and the blood from pooling. Instead, it encourages the blood to keep flowing, reducing swelling, inflammation and the risk of venous thromboembolism in the process.
Anti-embolism stockings come in two main lengths: knee-high and thigh-high. Knee-high stockings are less constricting, whereas thigh-high anti-embolism stockings provide compression benefits along the entire length of your leg. Some also feature inspection toe pockets so your caregivers can check on the state of your legs without having to remove the stockings.
If you know you’ll be recovering from surgery or will otherwise be bedridden, anti-embolism stockings are a great way to passively maintain your circulation without any extra effort on your part. These lightweight stockings are comfortable to wear during your recovery and will help reduce the risk of venous thromboembolism.
Kaki Zell - Vice President of Sales, Marketing, eCommerce at Legs-4-Life LLC Kaki holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Management from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. She’s been working in the medical device industry for over 11 years and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Greensboro Science Center.
Written August 2018 | Page last updated November 2021
Sources:
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. “Venous Thromboembolism” https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes/complications/foot-complications
National Center for Biotechnology Information “Graduated Compression Stockings” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4081237/