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Chronic venous insufficiency is believed to be the underlying condition responsible for 54-81% of leg ulcers with increasing prevalence in an aging population. Approximately 25% of these patients also present with concomitant arterial compromise making our choice of reduced compression difficult as most systems are indicated for patients with ABPIs between 0.5 and 0.8. In the past, we have utilized different combinations of bandages such as: cohesive wrap in combination with zinc paste bandages, cast padding, roll gauze or tubular stockings in an attempt to modify compression for patients with lower ABPIs.
OBJECTIVE:
An evaluation was conducted to determine the efficacy of a new compression bandage suitable for patients with a lower ABPI. The 2 layer lite compression system* was designed to provide safe, lower resting pressures while providing enough stiffness to support the muscle's working pressures for venous return.
METHODS:
An evaluation was conducted using the 2 layer lite compression system on outpatients in our Wound Healing & Treatment Center with ABPIs between 0.5 and 0.8 verified by an ABPI or arterial doppler study.
OUTCOMES:
Patients with mixed etiology or patients with venous stasis ulcers who could not tolerate full compression, the 2 layer lite compression system proved clinically therapeutic. Edema was controlled and healing occurred with no adverse effects. This system has improved our patient's acceptance of compression therapy. The patients preferred this system because the material is comfortable, lightweight and allowed them to wear their own shoes. This system was easy to use for our clinicians and provided an effective solution for patients with low ABPIs. Based on the successful evaluation, our Wound Center has standardized to the new 2 layer compression bandaging systems.
*3M™ Coban™ 2 Layer Lite Compression System
Financial Assistance/Disclosure:
Poster is sponsored and funded by 3M Health Care, St. Paul, Minnesota.