Blood clots are a great concern for post operation patients. Patients who are coming out of surgery and are in recovery spend most of their stay in bed. Prolonged lying or sitting can cause blood clots in the lower extremities due to lack of circulation. To prevent clots, the hospital requires patients to wear compression stockings and boots. Patients are measured from heal to knee and the circumference of the leg to obtain the right fit stocking. The boots are fit over the stockings and hooked to a pump that compresses and decompresses air into the boot surrounding the leg. The pressure circulates the blood in the legs and prevents clots from forming. Most patients say that the pressure from the boots pressing and releasing against their legs is very relaxing. When circulation of blood slows due to lack of movement, it begins to thicken and clot. These clots travel through the capillaries and arteries of the body. Patients who have coronary artery disease are at high risk for a heart attack if clots occur due to the altered passageway that already exists in the heart. It is crucial that patients maintain movement immediatly after surgery to prevent serious complications.
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