A Hydrostatic Pressure Stocking for the Treatment of Ulcers due to Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Chronic venous insufficiency may be complicated by ulceration of the skin of the involved extremity. The ulcers appear to be caused by the prolonged elevation of venous pressure in the leg and the resultant edema. A device is described that counterbalances exactly the elevated pressure in the veins of the leg, regardless of the position of the patient. This hydrostatic pressure stocking prevents formation of edema without interfering with the flow of blood through the tissues. The use of this device in the treatment of ulcers due to chronic venous insufficiency is also described.