Vascular medicine
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Efficacy of a short course of complex lymphedema therapy or graduated compression stocking therapy in the treatment of post-thrombotic syndrome.
Treatment options for established post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) are limited. Complex lymphedema therapy (CLT), a non-invasive treatment that improves lymphatic flow, may have the potential to improve PTS. We conducted a single-center, investigator-blind, randomized controlled trial of 31 patients with a clinically established diagnosis of PTS and compared the efficacy of graduated compression stockings alone (30-40 mmHg) with CLT, a treatment that includes compression stockings, exercise, patient education, skin care and lymphatic drainage. ⋯ Patients with moderate to severe PTS derived the greatest benefit from either therapy and the two therapies differentially impacted PTS signs and symptoms. We found a short course of lymphedema therapy and compression stockings offer similar benefit in patients with PTS; however, larger studies are needed to further explore the potential use of CLT in PTS, particularly in patients with more severe disease. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00633971.