Comparison of the interface pressure and stiffness of four types of compression systems

Objective: To compare interface pressure (IP) and static stiffness index (SSI) of four different compression systems currently in use for the treatment of patients with venous leg ulcer. Method: Fifty-two ambulatory adults with healthy legs were recruited at random at a study centre after they had consented. The evaluated systems were: short-stretch system (SSB), Rosidal sys (Lohmann & Rauscher), multilayer bandaging (LSB) Profore (Smith & Nephew), Vari-stretch (VSB) ProGuide (Smith & Nephew) and tubular compression (CS) Rosidal Mobil (Lohmann & Rauscher). Interface pressure was measured using Kikuhime (Harada Corp.), placing a 3cm-diameter probe at the B1 point. IP recording took place in the supine and standing positions, while sitting and during walking, on application of the compression systems and every 15 minutes thereafter for 4 hours. Results: The IPs of SSB, LSB and VSB, measured immediately after bandage application, were significantly higher than that of CS (all p < 0.05). During the 4-hour stu...