TY  - JOUR
T1  - Sub-compression interface pressure measurements in vivo, comparing adjustable compression wraps and custom-made flat knit compression stockings
LA  - English
AU  - Reißhauer, Anett
AU  - Kornappel, Simone
AU  - Tsatrafilis, Emmanouil
AU  - Stroux, Andrea
AU  - Liebl, Max
AB  - Background 
Adjustable Compression Wraps (ACW) are used as an alternative to flat-knitted compression stockings (CS) in the maintenance phase of complex decongestive therapy treating of lymphoedema.

Methods 
Self-applied ACW and custom-made CS were compared using sub-compression interface pressure measurements in vivo. Measurements were recorded using manometer-based Picopress®-devices in a sample of n = 30 probands with bilateral symmetric lymphostatic lower leg oedema. Legs were randomised to CS side and ACW side. Following standardised instruction and initial pressure measurements for both systems, ACW pressure measurements were repeated after 2 and 4 hours. Static Stiffness Index and pressure gradients between measuring points B1-C were calculated.

Results 
ACW showed resting pressures and SSI in therapeutic ranges and significantly higher than CS (p < 0.01; p < 0.001). ACW reached significantly higher working pressures (p < 0.001). Resting pressure sub-ACW did not show significant pressure drops after 2 and 4 hours, without re-adjusting. Average pressure gradients between ACW and CS did not differ significantly.

Discussion 
The pressure values reached with ACW underline their therapeutic effects. Pressures under self-applied ACW are relatively stable, even without re-adjusting. Self-application is interpreted as effective. A thorough instruction of patients is essential.
DO  - 10.1055/a-1134-2021
PY  - 2020
JF  - Phlebologie
ER  -