HealthDay reports on study findings published in the British Medical Journal  indicating it may be unnecessary for patients to wear compression stockings following surgeries to prevent blood clots.

Michael P. Ast, MD, hip and knee surgeon at HSS, who was not involved in the study, provided commentary on the findings, noting physicians have already moved away from the use of compression stockings. “The number-one thing in preventing blood clots is getting patients up and moving around," explained Dr. Ast. “Patients who are prone to swelling in the legs – which can be painful and hinder their mobility – may still need to wear them,” added Dr. Ast, mentioning he generally recommends patients wear the garments for about a month after they go home.

Read the full article at Consumer.healthyday.com.