Case upheld for four layer bandaging for leg ulcers

Compression treatment is recommended to promote healing of venous leg ulcers, and early work in Charing Cross showed that a four layer compression bandage achieved a high rate of healing (74%) in 2 weeks. The cost of effective bandages, however, has meant that this has not been a viable option in the home. On p 1487 Morrell et al evaluate the cost effectiveness of four layer compression bandaging in community based clinics in a randomised controlled trial in Trent. The healing rates in the clinics were greater than in the control group, who received standard treatment at home, and no significant difference was found in mean total NHS costs. The authors suggest that for patients who are willing to travel, an effective leg ulcer service could be provided in community clinics at a reduced cost.    


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Relevant Article

Cost effectiveness of community leg ulcer clinics: randomised controlled trial
C Jane Morrell, Stephen J Walters, Simon Dixon, Karen A Collins, Louise M L Brereton, Jean Peters, and Charles G D Brooker
BMJ 1998 316: 1487-1491. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]

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