Review: compression treatment improves healing of venous leg ulcers
Objective
To determine the effectiveness of compression treatment for venous leg ulcers using systematic review.
Data sources
Studies were identified using 19 bibliographic, citation, and research databases; searches of bibliographies of relevant papers; hand searches; and contact with manufacturers and authors.
Study selection
Studies were selected if they were randomised controlled trials (RCTs) which examined the effects of compression on the healing of venous leg ulcers.
Data extraction
Data were extracted (and checked by a second reviewer) on study inclusion and exclusion criteria, sample size, a priori sample size calculation, method of randomisation, comparability of treatment groups at baseline, blinded assessment of outcomes, use of appropriate outcome measures, and intention to treat analysis.
Main results
24 RCTs (6 unpublished) were included in the review. 6 treatment variables were analysed. Data for 3 variables (high v low compression, multilayer v single layer bandage, and adjunct …
