Fuzzy Wale Compression Stockinet Delivers Positive Pressure Wound Therapy (PPWT)

Background: Compression is the cornerstone in the management of venous leg ulcers (VLU) and edema of multiple origins.1, 2 Historically, compression dosage (mmHg) and gradience have been the principal determinates of therapeutic benefit of a compression application.3 New research demonstrating a third dimension, pressure distribution across the tissue/wound, has unlocked new perspectives of how compression reduces edema and impacts wound healing.4 A novel textile, Fuzzy Wale Compression Stockinet, was observed in vitro to produce longitudinal vertical distribution of pressure with alternating areas of little or no compression pressure. This in contrast to the more uniform distribution of traditional compression applications.4 The unique alternating pressure distribution observed in vitro has been clinically observed to produce better edema management and wound edge migration which mirrors the vertical pressure distribution.Method: A case series (n=5), with photos before and after, clearly demonstrating the tissue deformation produced and clinical healing progress that followed the incorporation of the augmented compression textile as a direct interface with wound. Details of each case including comorbidities, previous treatment interventions, and detailed explanation of treatment application will be included.Conclusion: Wound healing involves complex interplay between numerous cells types, cytokines, mediators, and the vascular system.5 Local factors that can affect wound healing are pressure, tissue edema, hypoxia, infection, maceration and dehydration.5 The authors postulate the utilization of the longitudinal elastic stockinette as a wound contact layer delivers positive pressure wound therapy (PPWT)©, analogous to negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), in delivering physiologic cell micro-distortion known to signal DNA to synthesize the many proteins necessary to clear dermatitis and heal wounds.6, 7 *Positive Pressure Wound Therapy (PPWT)© Suzie Ehmann, Albemarle, NC**EdemaWear®, Compression Dynamics LLC, Omaha, NE 68120