Definition of TED Stockings

TED stockings are a vital part of what doctors and StopDVT advocate for use as prevention (not a cure) for deep vein thrombosis. TED stands for thrombo-embolism deterrent, among other variations, such as thrombosis-embolism deterrent. The stockings are used as a preventive measure against the formation of stationary blood clots (thrombosis) and blood clots which move (embolus).

Definition

TED stockings, or thrombo-embolism deterrent stockings, are graduated compression stockings that come in a variety of lengths and sizes.
The graduated compression applies pressure to the legs in varying amounts, with the most compression furthest away from the heart, namely the ankle, and then lessening the compression further up the leg.
TED stockings are also called TED hose, T.E.D. stockings, anti-embolism hose, anti-embolism stockings or a variation of any of these terms.

Purpose

The purpose of TED stockings is to aid in circulation from the lower extremities to prevent the formation of blood clots, specifically deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
A thrombosis is a stationary blood clot. While formation of a blood clot anywhere in the body is an issue, a blood clot that forms within the deep veins of the legs and/or pelvis is more difficult to diagnose so that treatment may begin before the stationary clot can dislodge and move, at which point it is called an embolus. An embolus can be life-threatening.

Significance

The veins in the legs return the blood that circulates to them through the use of the calf muscles. When there is impaired circulation in the lower extremities or decreased or impaired mobility, the venous blood is slowed down in its return path or pools in the feet, ankles, legs. When the venous return in the legs is slowed, the possibility of a blood clot forming exists.
Gradient or graduated compression stockings function to prevent such slowing down of blood return to the heart and away from the lower extremities.
Your health-care provider may recommend TED stockings for a variety of reasons/conditions. Some physicians and/or hospitals use them routinely on post-surgical patients; others may use them on selected post-surgical patients, such as those that will be unable to ambulate for a period of time after surgery, such as hip replacement surgery.
Your health-care provider might also recommend you wear TED stockings for other medical conditions if he feels you may be at risk for developing blood clots in your legs.

Length of Use

You health-care provider should instruct you as to what period of time you should be wearing the TED stockings. In many instances, once you are able to resume your normal activities, you may be able to stop wearing the TED stockings, but check with your health-care provider before discontinuing use.

Size

Not only do TED stockings come in knee-length and thigh-length hose but also with open toe or closed toe. There is a size of TED stocking to fit almost any person, but it is important that the correct size stockings be worn.
In many instances, your health-care provider will take the measurements necessary to find the appropriate size TED stockings you need. If not, ask what measurements are required, or you can consult a pharmacist or medical supply company for the needed information.

References

• Stop DVT
• Vascular Disease Foundation
• Nursing Information