Compression therapy in peripheral artery disease: a literature review

Objective: Our objective is to examine the pathophysiology of oedema in the ischaemic and post-revascularised limb, compare compression stockings to pneumatic compression devices, and summarise compression regimens in patients with severe peripheral artery disease (PAD) without revascularisation, after revascularisation, and in mixed arterial and venous disease. Method: A scoping literature review of the aforementioned topics was carried out using PubMed. Results: Compression therapy has been shown to increase blood flow and aid in wound healing through a variety of mechanisms. Several studies suggest that intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) devices can be used to treat critical limb ischaemia in patients without surgical options. Additionally, compression stockings may have a role in preventing oedema after peripheral artery bypass surgery, thereby diminishing pain and reducing the risk of surgical wound dehiscence. Conclusion: Oedema may occur in the ischaemic limb after revascularisation surgery, as well as in combination with venous disease. Clinicians should not fear using compression therapy in PAD.