On the one hand, a stocking that is too large will not exert adequate compression on the veins and thrombosis prevention will be inadequate. On the other hand, a stocking that is too small will actually increase the risk of thrombosis - it causes constrictions, which then slow venous return or can even stop it altogether.

Correct measurement of an anti-embolism stocking is therefore essential to its preventive efficacy.

Since compression not only has a positive effect on the veins, but also affects the arterial system, medical anti-embolism stockings have an inspection opening at the toe. This opening allows easy monitoring of the arterial circulatory situation. Darkening of the skin colour under the toe nails indicates reduced arterial supply to the tissues. The compression must then be discontinued until the situation has been investigated. Further contraindications to the use of anti-embolism stockings are massive leg oedemas, right heart failure and a pulmonary oedema.

The selection of the correct size of medical anti-embolism stockings must therefore be made by specialists, even when patients are being cared for at home.

Two steps for the perfect fit: the colour-coded sizing system of mediven thrombexin 18 allows a quick and easy selection of the correct stocking.