Mani R, Vowden K, Nelson EA.
Intermittent pneumatic compression for treating venous leg ulcers.
Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2001;(4):CD001899

Medical Physics and Bioengineering, Southampton University Hospitals Trust,
Mailpoint 29, Southampton, UK, SO16 6YD. rm1@soton.ac.uk

BACKGROUND: Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is a mechanical method of
delivering compression to swollen limbs. This technique has been used to treat
venous leg ulcers and limb swelling due to lymphoedema. The effectiveness of IPC,
and the appropriate duration and frequency of IPC therapy are unknown as are the
differences between various types of IPC. This review analyses the evidence for
the effectiveness of IPC as a treatment for venous leg ulcers. OBJECTIVES: To
determine whether IPC increases the healing of venous leg ulcers. To determine
the effects of IPC on health related quality of life of venous leg ulcer
patients. SEARCH STRATEGY: The Cochrane Wound Group Trials Register was searched
for RCTs of intermittent pneumatic compression in February 2001. Journals and
relevant conference proceedings were searched by hand. Companies were also
contacted for relevant unpublished data or ongoing studies. SELECTION CRITERIA:
Randomised controlled studies either comparing IPC with control (sham IPC or no
IPC) or comparisons between IPC treatment regimens, in venous ulcer management
were included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Data extraction and assessment of
study quality were undertaken by two reviewers independently. MAIN RESULTS: Four
randomised controlled trials were identified. One small trial (45 people) found
increased ulcer healing with IPC plus compression than with compression alone
(relative risk for healing 11.4, 95% Confidence Interval 1.6 to 82). Two small
trials with a total of 75 people found no evidence of a benefit for IPC plus
compression compared with compression alone. One small trial (16 people) found no
difference between IPC (without additional compression) and compression bandages
alone. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS: Further trials are required to determine whether
IPC increases the healing of venous leg ulcers.