Rowland J.
Intermittent pump versus compression bandages in the treatment of venous leg ulcers.
Aust N Z J Surg 2000 Feb;70(2):110-3

Liverpool Health Service, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Jeff.Rowland@swsahs.nsw.gov.au

BACKGROUND: The purpose of the present paper was to compare healing rate and leg
swelling with an intermittent compression pump versus compression bandages in the
treatment of venous leg ulcers, and to also compare patient compliance and
satisfaction with the two techniques. METHODS: A randomized cross-over study of
patients attending an outpatient wound clinic (n = 16) was undertaken. A regular
monthly follow-up with measurement of ulcer size and leg volume was carried out,
as well as completion of a questionnaire. RESULTS: Assessment was possible in 11
of the 16 patients. There was no significant difference between treatment types
with regards to ulcer healing rates or control of leg oedema. The survey revealed
that patients found the pump easier and more comfortable to use, with a trend
towards increased compliance. CONCLUSIONS: Although the present study was too
small for generalizable conclusions, compression pumps and bandages are
comparable in efficacy for the healing of venous leg ulcers. The compression pump
is reported as being easier and more comfortable to use than bandages.