Simulated pressure changes in multilayer, multicomponent wrap systems when transitioning from rest to standing.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this paper was to investigate the pressure applied to the lower leg by multilayer, multicomponent wrap systems, in different positions Method: The stretch profiles of five multilayer, multicomponent wrap systems were tested, three 2-layer and two 4-layer systems. These were quantified in the laboratory using a tensile testing device. The circumference of the lower leg was measured on healthy participants in three locations (ankle, B1 level, and calf) in three different postures (rest, dorsiflexion, and standing).


RESULTS
The largest changes in circumference were used to simulate the pressure changes under the multilayer, multicomponent products using Laplace's Law. While the pressure differences were large for the zinc plaster product, pressure changes ranged from 5-10mmHg for the other, more elastic products. Additionally, it was noted that the leg decreased in circumference at the B1 level and calf for the majority of participants when transitioning from sitting to standing. This decrease in size results in a decrease in bandage tension and applied pressure.


CONCLUSIONS
These results show that the sub-bandage pressure is not significantly affected by changes in posture when used as intended, within the therapeutic range.


BACKGROUND
This study was sponsored by Carolon. L. Reid, and S. Kravitz are employees of Carolon and E. Grant is a Member of the Board. M. Hegarty-Craver and C. Kwon have received monetary compensation as researchers for Carolon.
North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC.
M
M
Hegarty-Craver
North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC.
E
E
Grant
Carolon 601 Forum Parkway, Rural Hall, NC.|Medical Director, Assistant Professor Executive Director APWH, Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, 148 S. Eighth Street, Philadelphia, PA.|Medical Director, Assistant Professor Executive Director APWH, Academy of Physicians in Wound Healing, Winston-Salem, NC.
S
S
Kravitz
North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC.
C
C
Kwon
Carolon 601 Forum Parkway, Rural Hall, NC.
L
L
Reid
2-layer compression; 4-layer compression; Laplace's law; compression therapy; multilayer bandage systems