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Acta Vulnologica 2007 June;5(2):51-9

Copyright © 2007 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: Italian

Compression bandaging and advanced dressings in venous leg ulcers: treatment protocol

Crespi A. ¹, Martinoli M. ¹, Ferrari A. ¹, Lombardi A. ², Apollonio E. ², Zaltieri C. ², Pezzolato C. ²

¹ Dipartimento di Chirurgia Generale ASL 13 Novara 2 Servizio Cure Domiciliari ASL 13 Novara

Compression bandaging is one of the most widely used techniques for treating venous leg ulcers. Besides reducing superficial venous pressure, compression therapy increases interstitial pressure, local capillary clearance and blood flow in the deep veins. In this way, skin tissue oxygenation and nutrition are enhanced, leading to earlier wound closure. A Cochrane review reports that application of a simple non adherent absorbent dressing provides adequate protection under the compression bandage. The choice of dressing should be based on the characteristics of the wound and the surrounding tissues, as well as the presence of exudate and pain.