The geko neuromuscular electrical stimulator

A Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Effectiveness of a Novel Neuromuscular Electro-Stimulation Device in Preventing the Formation of Oedema and Deep Vein Thrombosis Following Total Hip Replacement Surgery.

Study Description: This study investigated whether the geko™ device is more efficient than compression stockings in preventing the formation of symptomatic/asymptomatic Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVTs), post total hip replacement surgery.

Primary Objective: To evaluate whether an NMES (neuromuscular electrical stimulation) device is more efficient than compression stockings in preventing the formation of oedema following total hip replacement surgery.

Secondary Objectives: To compare the formation of asymptomatic and symptomatic DVT, to compare device acceptability, tolerability and compliance, and to compare device safety by monitoring for adverse events.

Results: The results of this study suggest that the NMES is a safe and well tolerated alternative to compression stockings, which should be considered by clinicians seeking the additional benefit of reducing post-operative oedema. In addition, the NMES device should be considered as part of a DVT prophylaxis.

Publications: 

A feasibility randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel neuromuscular electro-stimulation device in preventing the formation of oedema following total hip replacement surgery – PMC (nih.gov) Wainwright TW, Burgess LC, Middleton RG. A feasibility randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel neuromuscular electro-stimulation device in preventing the formation of oedema following total hip replacement surgery. Heliyon. 2018;4(7):e00697. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2018.e00697.