Compression stockings for treating venous leg ulcers: measurement of interface pressure under a new ulcer kit

Objectives The aim of this study was to measure the interface pressure of a newly designed two-layer compression stocking (Mediven ulcer kit® Medi QMBH, Bayreuth, Germany) in different body positions and to compare the values with those obtained with another two-layer product. Methods Interface pressure was measured on the distal medial leg in 16 legs of volunteers, with the basic layer alone and with the whole stocking kit in the supine, sitting and standing position for both stocking systems. The literature concerning ulcer-healing rates is reviewed. Results Mediven ulcerkit® produced statistically significant higher pressure values than the ulcer stocking with a median resting value of 35.5 mmHg in the supine and 42.5 mmHg in the standing position. The pressure while standing comes close to values exerted by bandages. The basic layer alone applies a pressure of 20.5 mmHg. Conclusions Especially designed compression stockings exerting sufficient interface pressure may be indicated in patients with small ulcers of short duration.