What are T.E.D.® Hose?

Thromboembolic Disease hose or ted® hose are tight-fitting, long stockings that apply pressure to legs to prevent blood clots. The hose are used to treat thromboembolic disease, which contribute to or causes blood clots. Typically, these compression stockings are used after surgery to keep blood flowing in the lower extremities. In addition, people who have circulatory problems, or those whose blood does not efficiently clot wear compression stockings to assist with optimal blood flow. In addition, ted® hose stockings offer comfort and support in those who have aching legs or varicose veins.

Typically, the post-operative patient is prone to blood clots. This is because patients are less active immediately after the surgical procedure, causing sluggish circulation. This slowing of the circulation can create conditions that are right for blood clot formation. Usually, ted® hose can improve circulation by improving blood flow and reducing swelling. In addition, the physician may recommend wearing compression stockings when traveling in airplanes, because the high altitude can impede the flow of blood. When the legs are mildly compressed and warm, the heart can more effectively pump the blood through the body.

Generally, ted® hose are worn during the day, and removed at night before going to bed. In addition, they are to be removed only for bathing, or laundering. In certain surgical patients, such as those who have undergone extensive orthopedic procedures such as hip surgery, ted® socks may need to be worn for extended periods of time.

An extra pair of ted® hose stockings should be obtained in the event that the first pair becomes torn or soiled. Although the patient may feel more comfortable when not wearing the ted® socks, they should not leave them off for extended periods of time. The health care provider will instruct the patient on the proper technique for wearing the stockings.

It is important to keep the ted® hose clean. Laundering them helps increase their life by removing body fluids and other debris from their elastic fibers. The compression stockings should be laundered in the washing machine with either warm or cold water and a mild detergent. Bleaching the stocking is discouraged, as this can weaken the fibers and render the compression features ineffective. The ted® stockings can be put in a clothes dryer until dried, or may be air dried. If the ted® hose show signs of wear and tear, they should be replaced with a new pair.