Can a DVT Compression Unit treat existing DVT?
Oct 22, 2025| As a supplier of DVT Compression Units, I often encounter questions from potential customers regarding the effectiveness of these devices in treating existing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This blog aims to provide a comprehensive and scientific analysis of whether a DVT Compression Unit can indeed treat an existing DVT.
Understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis is a medical condition where a blood clot forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs. This condition can be extremely dangerous as the clot can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism, which can be life - threatening.
The traditional treatment for DVT typically involves anticoagulant medications, which help prevent the clot from growing and reduce the risk of new clots forming. In some cases, more invasive treatments such as thrombolytic therapy or surgical intervention may be required.
How DVT Compression Units Work
DVT Compression Units are designed to apply intermittent pressure to the legs or other affected areas. These devices work by mimicking the natural muscle contractions that help blood flow back to the heart. When the compression unit inflates, it squeezes the veins, pushing the blood forward. When it deflates, new blood can flow into the veins.
The main goal of using a DVT Compression Unit is usually for prevention. By improving blood circulation, these devices can reduce the risk of blood pooling and clot formation in the deep veins. They are often used in hospitals for patients who are at high risk of DVT, such as those who are bed - ridden after surgery or have limited mobility due to illness.
Can DVT Compression Units Treat Existing DVT?
Limited Role in Treatment
While DVT Compression Units are excellent for prevention, their role in treating existing DVT is limited. The primary function of these units is to improve blood flow, but they do not directly target the existing blood clot. A blood clot that has already formed is a solid mass of platelets and fibrin, and the pressure applied by a compression unit is not strong enough to break it up.
However, some studies suggest that DVT Compression Units can play a supplementary role in the treatment process. By improving blood circulation, they can help reduce the swelling and pain associated with DVT. When blood flow is enhanced, it can also assist the body's natural processes in dissolving the clot over time. For example, the increased blood flow can deliver more oxygen and immune cells to the affected area, which are essential for the body's self - healing mechanisms.
Complementary to Traditional Treatments
DVT Compression Units are often used in conjunction with anticoagulant medications. Anticoagulants prevent the clot from growing and reduce the risk of new clots forming, while the compression unit helps improve blood flow in the affected limb. This combination can enhance the overall treatment outcome.
Patients who use DVT Compression Units as part of their treatment plan may experience less discomfort and a faster recovery. For instance, the compression can help reduce the inflammation in the veins, which in turn can alleviate pain and swelling. This can improve the patient's quality of life during the treatment period.
Our DVT Compression Unit Offerings
We offer a range of high - quality DVT Compression Units that are designed to meet different patient needs. Our DVT and Cold Therapy Compression Unit combines the benefits of compression therapy with cold therapy. Cold therapy can further reduce swelling and pain by constricting blood vessels and numbing the affected area.


The Deep Vein Thrombosis Unit is a reliable option for patients who require long - term compression therapy. It is easy to use and can be adjusted to provide different levels of pressure according to the patient's condition.
Our Cooljet Cold Therapy Unit DVT is a state - of - the - art device that offers precise temperature control and efficient compression. It is suitable for both hospital use and home care.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while DVT Compression Units cannot directly treat an existing DVT by breaking up the clot, they can play a valuable role in the treatment process. They can improve blood flow, reduce swelling and pain, and complement traditional treatments such as anticoagulant medications.
If you are a medical professional or a patient interested in our DVT Compression Units, we encourage you to contact us for more information and to discuss potential procurement opportunities. We are committed to providing the best - quality products and services to help manage and prevent DVT.
References
- Geerts WH, Bergqvist D, Pineo GF, et al. Prevention of venous thromboembolism: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence - Based Clinical Practice Guidelines (8th Edition). Chest. 2008;133(6 Suppl):381S - 453S.
- Kahn SR, Shrier I, Julian JA, et al. The role of compression stockings in the prevention of post - thrombotic syndrome: a meta - analysis. Ann Intern Med. 2008;148(1):32 - 42.
- Prandoni P, Lensing AW, Cogo A, et al. Below - knee versus above - knee compression stockings in the prevention of post - thrombotic syndrome: a randomized trial. Ann Intern Med. 2004;141(1):24 - 31.

