#Compression bandage update#

Most RCTs were small, and most were at unclear or high risk of bias. Data extraction was performed by one review author and verified independently by a second review author.įorty-eight RCTs reporting 59 comparisons were included (4321 participants in total). There was no restriction on date, language or publication status of RCTs.ĭetails of eligible studies were extracted and summarised using a data extraction table.

SECONDARY OUTCOMES of the review included ulcer recurrence, costs, quality of life, pain, adverse events and withdrawals. RCTs had to report an objective measure of ulcer healing in order to be included (primary outcome for the review). primary dressing alone, non-compressive bandage) or an alternative type of compression. Eligible comparators included no compression (e.g. RCTs recruiting people with venous leg ulceration that evaluated any type of compression bandage system or compression stockings were eligible for inclusion. No date or language restrictions were applied.

#Compression bandage update#

Which compression bandage or stocking system is the most effective?įor this second update we searched: the Cochrane Wounds Group Specialised Register () the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library Issue 5, 2012) Ovid MEDLINE (1950 to May Week 4 2012) Ovid MEDLINE (In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations ) Ovid EMBASE (1980 to 2012 Week 21) and EBSCO CINAHL (1982 to ). Does the application of compression bandages or stockings aid venous ulcer healing? 2. To undertake a systematic review of all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effects on venous ulcer healing of compression bandages and stockings.Specific questions addressed by the review are:1. There is a large number of compression garments available and it was unclear whether they are effective in treating venous ulcers and, if so, which method of compression is the most effective. The main treatment is the application of a firm compression garment (bandage or stocking) in order to aid venous return. Leg ulcers arising from venous problems are called venous (or varicose or stasis) ulcers.

The majority of these leg ulcers are due to problems in the veins, resulting in an accumulation of blood in the legs. Up to one percent of people in industrialised countries will suffer from a leg ulcer at some time.