Comparative Healthy Human Wear Study and Performance Assessment of Two-Layer Compression with Three-Layer Compression

The standard of care for treatment of venous leg ulcers (VLUs) calls for advanced wound care dressings to manage the exudate and compression to manage the edema.1 In the use of compression therapy, it is paramount that the compression bandage be effective but also that the patient is compliant. For patients to be more compliant, bandage comfort and ability to remain in place is crucial.2

A comparative wear study was conducted with 9 healthy volunteers (participants) who had both two-layer compression* and three-layer compression• applied to their legs by medical professionals trained in the application of each respective kit. Assessments were completed based on feedback from the medical professionals during application and removal of the compression kits. Participant and bandage assessments were completed daily for comfort, slippage, cohesive wrap integrity, mobility interference, sleep interference, and effect on pant/shoe selection and wear-ability. Average wear time was analyzed for both compression kit offerings.

This study showed that the two-layer compression had marked advantages over the three-layer compression. It was faster to apply, worn for longer, more comfortable to wear, and overall had less impact on participant quality of life. Both compression systems experience slippage within the first 24 however, the average slippage experience at 24 hours for the two-layer compression was only 0.86 cm while the three-layer average slippage was 9.44 cm. The two-layer compression average wear time was nearly two days longer with higher comfort ratings, highlighting this option to be ideal for optimal patient compliance.

Trademarked Items (if applicable): *CoFlex TLC LS Lite 2-Layer, Milliken Healthcare Products, LLC, Spartanburg, SC
•PROFORE Lite 3-Layer, Smith & Nephew, London, UK<br><br><strong>References&nbsp;(if applicable): 1. Rudolph D. Standards of care for venous leg ulcers: compression therapy and moist wound healing. J Vasc Nurs. 2001;19(1):20-27. doi:10.1067/mvn.2001.113987
2. Heinen MM, van der Vleuten C, de Rooij MJM, Uden CJT, Evers AWM, van Achterberg T. Physical Activity and Adherence to Compression Therapy in Patients With Venous Leg Ulcers. Arch Dermatol. 2007;143(10):1283–1288. doi:10.1001/archderm.143.10.1283