Clinical Question 3: Is Compression Therapy Effective to Alleviate Leg Edema Caused by Chronic Venous Insufficiency?

Abstract

 Recommendation: Compression therapy is recommended for patients with leg edema due to chronic venous insufficiency.（Class I, Level B）
 Review of the evidences: Four reports were extracted through a systematic review. Meta-analysis revealed that elastic compression stockings with an interface pressure of 10–20 mmHg reduced leg edema more than placebo or no compression stockings. A prospective study demonstrated a dose-dependent（20-40 mmHg）reduction in leg edema with leg compression. Two randomized controlled trials compared elastic compression stockings（median 36 mmHg）and adjustable compression garments（median 52 mmHg）with inelastic multilayer bandages（60-87 mmHg）. After seven days of application, elastic compression stockings exerted similar effects, and adjustable compression garments exerted a larger edema reduction compared to that by inelastic multilayer bandages.
 Summary: To reduce leg edema due to chronic venous insufficiency, compression therapy at a pressure of 10-50 mmHg is recommended.