Objective: The aim of this study was to establish the efficacy of three different strengths of compression systems in the prevention of venous leg ulcer (VLU) recurrences during a 10-year follow up period.
Methods: An open, prospective, randomized, single-center study included 477 patients (240 men, 237 women; mean age 59 years). Patients were randomized into three groups: Group A) 149 patients (allocated to wear elastic stocking 18-25 mmHg). Group B) 167 patients (wearing compression device exerting 25-35 mmHg), and Group C) 161 patients (treated with multilayer compression system exerting 35-50 mmHg).
Results: Overall, 65% (234/360) of patients had recurrent VLU within 10 years. Recurrence occurred in 120 (96%) of 125 in group A, in 89 (66.9%) of 133 patients in group B and in 25 (24.5%) of 102 patients in group C (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Compression systems with the higher compression class provide lower recurrence rate.
Keywords: Venous ulcers; compression treatment; recurrence.