A randomized, controlled trial comparing compression bandaging and cold therapy in postoperative total knee replacement surgery.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the difference between compression bandaging and cold therapy after total knee arthroplasty.


METHODS
Eighty-four postoperative, unilateral, total knee replacement, surgical clients.


METHODS
Clients were randomized into two groups: those receiving compression bandaging, and those receiving cryo-pad technology. Subjects were assessed for total length of stay, blood loss, blood transfusion, swelling, flexion, pain, and opiate use.


RESULTS
Unlike other studies, the results of these data showed no significant differences between groups on the measured outcomes. A simple cost benefit analysis shows that the compression bandage is cheaper and more labor efficient than the cold therapy as delivered by cryo-pad technology.
Smith
John
J
St Vincent's Hospital, Lismore, Australia.
Stevens
John
J
Taylor
Maree
M
Tibbey
Jill
J
D019645:Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D001458:Bandages / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D017679:Cryotherapy / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016530:Orthopedic Nursing; D011182:Postoperative Care / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic