To ask about surgical stockings

8 replies

Summersu222 · 29/05/2023 20:02

Bit random but one thing that’s worrying me about an upcoming operation is the surgical stockings. I’m a size 10 but have large calves for my size. When I was in before, I was told I’d been given the biggest size. I know they are meant to be tight, but they were really digging in the whole time. Any medics, nurses or anyone who’s had a few ops have any advice?
Its just that they were so tight they felt like they were cutting off my circulation. Do plus size ones exist ? Any advice welcome. Thanks

OP posts:

FOJN · 29/05/2023 20:05

They should measure your calves and give you the appropriate size for your legs not your dress size. Were the surgical stockings cutting in above the calf but below the knee? You should mention this when they are measuring you.

SingingWaffleDoggy · 29/05/2023 20:06

They should take your calf and your length measurements and get the best size for you depending on the directions of whatever brand they use. Make sure they are pulled right up to just below the back of the knee ‘crease’, right up over your calf muscle as that’s where they’re meant to be.
Think of the fact that these are needed for 100 year old little ladies through to Rugby players and rest assured they’ll have a size that fits you.

usermumnurse · 29/05/2023 20:08

We do XL ones at my trust - they should measure your ankle circumference not just give you the biggest pair - please ask them to find an alternative as you don't want to be uncomfortable or obtain skin damage - there are such things as electric ipc devices that have a Velcro fastening if they are unable to provide you with the correct size

Original poster

Summersu222 · 30/05/2023 20:54

Thanks for the replies. That’s a good point about rugby players! I think I’ll also mention at my pre assessment.
Just dreading that it’s the same size stockings as last time and they really dig in.

OP posts:

AndTheSurveySays · 30/05/2023 21:36

I can't tolerate surgical stockings so I get given dalteparin (blood thinner) injections instead when in hospital. If you ask they might consider the same for you?

Bargellobitch · 30/05/2023 21:48

You're supposed to have a bit of excess fabric at the top so it's loose around the knee. Rather than ending immediately before the knee and creating a very tight band. Does this make sense?

Bargellobitch · 30/05/2023 21:49

Posted too soon.. Wondered if you were wearing correctly? Just as this olid ofen where and why the dig in.

Greybeardy · 30/05/2023 22:12

depending on the operation/your risk factors you might not need them. If you do and it's really bothering you then maybe get your own?

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