Noninvasive Quantification of Ambulatory Venous Hemodynamics During Elastic Compressive Therapy

Abstract

Quantifying the hemodynamic results of elastic compression requires invasive and cumbersome techniques. Twenty lower extremities (normal, primary, acute and chronic post-thrombotic varicosities) were evaluated with quantitative photoplethysmography (PPG) prior and subsequent to initiating graded compression. The PPG transducer is placed against the stockings and the in vivo method of calibration is used to predict the results of compressive therapy on ambulatory venous pressure (AVP). (table see text) Noninvasive evaluation of patients with quantitative PPG techniques following compressive therapy may provide a better understanding of venous hemodynamics and a rational approach to selection of therapy.

The Effectiveness of Compression Garments and Lower Limb Exercise on Post-exercise Blood Pressure Regulation in Orthostatically Intolerant Athletes

“…14,15 Specifically, compression garments and leg-crossing have been employed to passively relocate peripherally pooled blood to toward the thoracic region, inhibit venous reflux, 14 and promote venous return. 16,17 These methods likely dampen the impact of a vasodepressor response to orthostasis. Heel raises may also increase BP via an increase in cardiac output (CO) 15 due partially to the activation of the calf muscle pumps and an increase in sympathetic activity.…”