Specially designed compression stockings for the treatment of stasis ulcers. A effective therapeutic alternative

Background and Objective. The aim of the study was to measure the pressure exerted on the skin with application of the specially designed UlcerCare(R) compression stocking for treatment of chronic venous leg ulcers and simult aneously to objectify the improvement in venous function. Patients/Methods. Twenty patients with chronic venous insufficiency accordi ng to the CEAP Classification C1-4 E-P A(S), A(14),A(P), P-R were examined. Static exerted pressure was measured while standing and the dynamic equiva lent was measured during 10 repetitions of tip-toe exercise. The patients w ere wearing the standard stocking JOBST Medical LegWear UlcerCare(R) (Beier sdorf AG, Hamburg, Germany). As a control for the effectiveness of the ther apy on venous hemodynamics, the lower leg volume, calculated using optoelec tronically-measured lower leg circumference and venous reflux, determined b y strain gauge plethysmographically-measured venous refill time, were used. Results. Use of the compression stocking system UlcerCare(R) resulted in a decreased lower leg volume. This decrease was on average 5.3%, correspondin g to 106+/-78 mi (p<0.001). The calf and forefoot venous function parameter s also improved. The venous refill time improved from 27.2+/-15.2 s to 45.0 +/-27.4 s at the forefoot (p<0.003) and from 10.5+/-4.5 s to 19.4+/-10.9 s at the calf (p<0.002). The exerted pressure at the ankle while standing was 46.2+/-24.2 mmHg (resting pressure) and 48.5+/-27.2 mmHg during repetitive tip-toe exercises (mean exercise pressure). At the calf, the exerted press ure while standing was 40.7+/-26.9 mmHg (resting pressure) and during the r epetitive tip-toe exercises it was 42.1+/-29.5 mmHg (mean exercise pressure ). Conclusions. The exerted pressure of the UlcerCare(R) compression stocking is equivalent to that of a class 3 medical compression stocking. This newly developed stocking diminishes venous reflux and reduces leg edema. These o bjectified effects suggest that the UlcerCare(R) stocking is effective as c ompression therapy for venous ulcers.