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Clinical Research
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A clinical evaluation to compare the effects of a multi-layer high compression bandage system* and a 2 layer compression system First Author: Juan O Bravo Authors: Juan Bravo, MD, CWS, FCCWS Venous leg ulcers account for up to 85% of all lower-extremity ulcers, with treatment costs of $3 billion and two million work days lost per year, McGuckin et al., (2002). One of the most important factors in treatment is sustained graduated compression, Cullum et al.., (2001). A validated protocol of venous ulcer management is graduated lower leg compression to aid venous return and reduce edema, while maintaining a moist environment to support ulcer healing, with absorbent dressings to manage excess exudate, Bolton et al., (2004). Many compression systems are available, although they differ in the method of application, and the amount of pressure applied to the limb, Fletcher et al. (1997). Several authors have suggested that there are limitations with the current therapies available in clinical practice, and these limitations include issues with patient comfort, body image, failure to stay in place and resultant patient concordance with therapy, Day et al., (2006). This was a small scale pilot evaluation to compare a multi-layer high compression bandaging system* to a 2 layer Compression system** in the treatment of venous leg ulcers. All patients were; >18 years of age, males, or non-pregnant females, who had a venous leg ulcer for >6 weeks. Venous insufficiency was confirmed by Doppler examination and all patients had a reading between 0.8 and 1.2. to be included in the evaluation. Several performance parameters were evaluated between the two systems including the time to ulcer closure, reduction in edema, patient comfort, ease of application, bandage slippage and cost effectiveness. The full results will be presented in the poster together with brief conclusions drawn. |
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