Pressure Differences of Compression Bandages at Different Sites of the Leg

Abstract

In this study, interface pressure under two different kinds of compression bandages was compared between different sites of the leg. In 20 healthy volunteers, the pressure beneath short-stretch bandages with a maximal tension of 70% and elastic bandages with a maximal tension of 170% was determined by using an Air Pack Type Analyser at the ankle, calf and thigh during lying and standing. With the elastic bandages, a graduated pressure drop in a proximal direction was observed in both supine position and standing. With the short-stretch bandages, while the same pressure gradient was observed during standing, pressure at the ankle was significantly lower than that at the calf in the supine position. When the bandages were applied on a wooden leg, the same results were observed. These results indicate that it is more difficult to gauge the tension in the short-stretch bandages than the elastic bandages when they are applied at the ankle region The interface pressure was significantly lower at the posterior region of the medial malleolus than at the 2cm above site of the medial malleolus. Furthermore, the pressure at the medial site was significantly lower than that at the pretibial zone. These findings indicate that the irregular shape of the ankle influences the interface pressure. The use of compression pads might be of value when sufficient pressure is needed at these regions.