4 layer bandages were better than 1 layer bandages, and pentoxifylline may be better than placebo for venous leg ulcers
- bandages (hydrocolloid)
- cellulose
- leg ulcer
- pentoxifylline
- stockings (compression)
- vasodilator agents
Q In patients with venous leg ulcers, which drug, bandage, and dressing options are most effective for healing?
METHODS
Design:
2×2×2 factorial randomised controlled trial.
Allocation:
concealed.
Blinding:
partially blinded (patients and healthcare providers were blinded to the drug intervention only).
Follow up period:
24 weeks.
Setting:
2 centres in Scotland, UK.
Patients:
245 patients >18 years of age (mean age 70 y, 67% women) with clinical signs of venous disease and a venous leg ulcer ⩾1 cm in length and ⩾8 weeks in duration. Exclusion criteria included important arterial disease, diabetes, and infected or gangrenous ulcers.
Interventions:
pentoxifylline, sustained release 400 mg 3 times daily, (n = 121) or placebo (n = 124); 4 layer bandage (n = 117) or adhesive 1 layer bandage (n = 128); and …
