TY  - JOUR
T1  - Adjustable Compression Wraps are Non-Inferior to Custom-Made Flat Knit Compression Stockings in the Maintenance Phase of Complex Decongestive Therapy
TT  - Medizinische Adaptive Kompressionssysteme sind Flachstrick-Kompressionsstrümpfen in der KPE Phase II nicht unterlegen
LA  - English
AU  - Reißhauer, Anett
AU  - Kornappel, Simone
AU  - Tsatrafilis, Emmanouil
AU  - Stroux, Andrea
AU  - Liebl, Max Emanuel
AB  - Background
Evidence supports the use of adjustable compression wraps (ACW) in the intensive phase of complex decongestive therapy (CDT), whereas evidence of its use in the maintenance phase of oedema therapy is sparse.

Methods
Randomised controlled non-inferiority trial in the maintenance phase of oedema therapy (CDT phase II) of symmetric lymphostatic oedema of the lower leg. Oedema therapy was performed with ACW and custom-made flat knit compression stockings (FCS) as a reference therapy in parallel over 3 days in n = 30 subjects. The primary outcome was lower leg volume as measured with perometer. Safety of ACW self-application and the patient perspective were secondary outcomes.

Results
ACW is non-inferior to custom-made FCS in CDT phase II of lymphostatic lower leg oedema. The differences of volume effects lie within the apriori defined equivalence interval of ± 50 ml (p = 0.163; 95 %-CI [ − 38.2; + 6.8]). Self-administration of ACW has shown no relevant side effects. ACW are easier to put on and off, while wearing comfort is comparable.

Conclusions
ACW are an alternative therapy option in the maintenance phase of CDT. Self-application seems to be safe, subject to diligent instruction of patients. Patients with difficulties putting on and off compression stockings could benefit from the use of ACW. Patients with pronounced limb volume may need to wear shoes with bigger sizes when wearing ACW. Further research with a longer observation time is to follow.
DO  - 10.1055/a-1097-7675
PY  - 2020
SN  - 0940-6689
JF  - Physikalische Medizin, Rehabilitationsmedizin, Kurortmedizin
ER  -