Unique Combination of Two Different Types of Medical Elastic Stockings Demonstrates Therapeutic Compression and Outcomes for Management of Venous Leg Ulcers

Background: The impact of layering different compression textiles is well published in the compression literature. Review of the compression literature supports multi-layer compression over a single layer for venous leg ulcer healing. With regards to medical compression stockings (MCS) it has been suggested that layering flat knit garment over a circular knit garment was superior to traditional ulcer care kits which consist of two circular knit products. 

Purpose: The aim of this observation study was to demonstrate therapeutic compression levels and outcomes for management of venous leg ulcer utilizing a hybrid ulcer care kit consisting a circular knit ulcer care liner and a flat knit outer MCS.

Method: Observational study followed the outcomes of four patients (n) with venous leg ulcers (VLU). Patient received cohesive wrap to reduce volume and manage excessive exudate as needed. Once volume of the limb was stable, patients were instructed with use of hybrid compression product. Objective outcome data was tracked weekly over a 30-day period.  Outcome data included: in vivo measurements of interface pressure, wound dimensions, limb volume.  

Results/Discussion: Outcome data showed therapeutic pressure ranges for the hybrid stocking throughout the observation period. Reduced wound size and stable volume measurements were observed for all patients.  The hybrid stocking demonstrated a higher stiffness compared to traditional ulcer care kits which are both circular knit products.

Conclusion: Use of a hybrid MCS consisting of both a circular knit and a flat knit layer produced therapeutic compression levels and positive outcomes data. Additional study is warranted to investigate the benefits of this combination of textiles.