A comparison of different modes of pneumatic compression on muscle tissue oxygenation: An intraparticipant, randomised, controlled volunteer study.

Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) to the lower limbs is widely used as a mechanical means to prevent deep vein thrombosis in hospitalised patients. Due to a theoretical concern about impairing blood flow, thromboembolic-deterrent stockings and IPC are considered contraindicated for patients with peripheral vascular diseases by some clinicians. This study assessed whether IPC would alter peripheral limb muscle tissue oxygenation (StO), and whether such changes were different during 10 minutes of sequential and single-compartment compressions.