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Compression stockings, "blood thinners" and anticoagulants

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tony_88888
tony_88888

On many of these threads, members refer to whether or not you should wear compression stockings and for how long. They also refer to taking blood thinners. These two areas of treatment seem to be very misunderstood. All patients undergoing a hip replacement should in the first instance ask their surgeon what is advised but if in doubt the following may help.

Compression stockings are used after surgery to prevent blood clots developing in the leg which is known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They are normally recommended if it is likely that you will be unable to move around much after surgery; either due to the after-effects of surgery or having another medical condition affecting your mobility.

When you're admitted to hospital, your risk of DVT will be assessed by your surgeon to decide whether you need compression stockings. You may need to wear stockings even if you're able to leave hospital on the same day as your operation. They should normally be worn until you are mobile and have stopped taking the anticoagulant drugs

Anticoagulants such as Pradaxa work by interrupting the process involved in the formation of blood clots. They're sometimes called "blood-thinning" medicines, although they don't actually make the blood thinner. Used for similar purposes, anticoagulants are different to blood thinners, such as low-dose aspirin.

Always ask your surgeon about these issues.

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  • maree32074
    maree32074 tony_88888

    Posted

    I had the electronic device that massaged your legs too but the noise irritated me so they put on the compression stockings. I think it is important to use these until you are fairly mobile as well as blood thinners.  I followed my surgeons advice.
  • bryan85545
    bryan85545 tony_88888

    Posted

    I had core decompression surgery on the left hip 6 weeks ago and had the thigh high stockings on from the hospital but, only tolerated them for 3 days. Was supposed to wear for 6 weeks.

    Way too hot here in Hawaii and left leg started getting a bad heat rash.

    Had the daily anti-inflammation meds and aspirin.

    Never had any swelling or pain so, didn't seem like it mattered.

    Plus I was up and about on crutches right away.

    I'm very athletic. Surfer, hiker and bike rider.

    Well, used to surf and hike until my hips gave out.

    Seems its based more on who your surgeon is as to what's recommended.

    THR on the right side coming in Dec. 

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