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.
Conclusion: These results show that the sub-bandage pressure is not significantly affected by changes in posture when used as intended, within the therapeutic range.
Declaration of interest: 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.
Keywords: 2-layer compression; 4-layer compression; Laplace's law; compression therapy; multilayer bandage systems.