A recent study comparing four-layer (4LB) and short-stretch bandaging (SSB) techniques has found that both methods are equally successful for treating leg ulcers in community care settings.

The study was based in Canada, where quality of life scores are lower than average for those with leg ulcers. Published in Bio Med Central Nursing, researchers assessed 424 individual patients suffering from leg ulcers until their wounds healed. Registered nurses (RNs) were required to use an evidence-informed protocol for treating the leg ulcers, and 215 exclusively used the 4LB bandaging method for compression, while the 209 others used the SSB. Average healing time using the 4LB bandaging method took 62 days, while SSB took 77.

Profore® (Smith and Nephew) was used for the 4LB technique, and the cotton short-stretch bandages, Comprilan® (Smith and Nephew) was used for the SSB method. Quality assurance procedures were followed to ensure their proper use. It was found that 41% of patients using 4LB Profore and 21% using SSB Comprilan bandages had issues with their bandages, such as discomfort from tight application.

With RNs trained in the principles of leg ulcer care and bandaging techniques, it was found that the bandages compared in this study (the largest to date) were equally as effective. The majority of patients were more satisfied with their treatment than in previous trials, as the nurses' skills were more up-to-date and they performed quality of care check-ups more often.

To read the study, click here.

Image: Bandage roll. Credit: exfordy on Flickr.