25116277
OBJECTIVE	Leg compression is considered basic treatment for superficial vein thrombosis ( SVT ) , although scientific proof for its efficacy is lacking .
OBJECTIVE	The aim of the study was to evaluate the therapeutic effect of compression stockings on isolated SVT of the legs .
METHODS	This was a single-center randomized controlled trial .
METHODS	Eighty patients with isolated SVT of the legs were instructed to wear compression stockings ( 23-32mmHg ) ( CG ) or no compression ( NCG ) for 3 weeks .
METHODS	All patients received low molecular weight heparin ( LMWH ) at prophylactic dosage .
METHODS	Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs ) were allowed .
METHODS	The primary outcome variable was the reduction of pain as assessed by a visual analog scale ( VAS ) and the Lowenberg test .
METHODS	Secondary outcomes were the consumption of analgesics , thrombus length , skin erythema , D-dimer , and quality of life ( QoL ) .
RESULTS	Seventy-three patients completed the study .
RESULTS	Clinical symptoms and QoL significantly improved from baseline to day 21 in both groups ( p < .001 for VAS , Lowenberg test , thrombus length , and erythema ; p < .006 for QoL ) , and consumption of analgesics and D-dimer significantly decreased ( p < .001 ) .
RESULTS	There was no significant difference between the groups for all tested variables .
RESULTS	At day 7 , patients in the CG revealed a significantly faster thrombus regression ( p = .02 ) .
CONCLUSIONS	Adding compression stockings for 3 weeks to LMWH and NSAIDs does not bring significant additional benefit in the treatment of isolated SVT .
CONCLUSIONS	When worn for 1 week , compression stockings stimulate significantly faster thrombus regression .

