If a scrape, cut, or chronic wound does not heal, it is more likely due to a problem with blood flow from the part of the body which is hurt to the heart that pumps the blood. If the body part has a good blood supply, compression bandages are here to enhance blood return and should be offered.
A compression bandage helps wounds heal faster, reduce edema, and prevent ulcers in the legs from returning by providing pressure to the lower leg. Compression hosiery, for example, tights, socks, or stockings, and bandaging or wrap systems can all be used to achieve this. Compression bandage comes in various forms, so the patient will find one that suits them the most.
When the treatment is first started, compression can be uncomfortable, but it should not be painful for the patient. As the swelling decreases, any discomfort should decrease. Encourage the patients to talk if they are in pain so you/we may propose strategies to alleviate it.
What is compression bandage therapy?
The application of sustained or dynamic force to the lower limbs is known as compression therapy. The pressure is estimated in millimeters (mm) or mercury and is applied by stockings, elastic bandages, and other braces and compression wrap types. Although the amount of pressure administered varies depending on the diagnosis and comorbidities, a 30 to 40 mm Hg pressure is commonly indicated.
However, a pressure of 20 to 30 may be enough for senior people to promote slowing down the occurrence of wounds and minimize edema in the lower limbs caused by returning venous. By enhancing venous return, lowering venous pooling blood flow, improving oxygenation to the wound site, and reducing edema, external pressure helps wound healing.
The pressure should be administered in a graduated way, with the ankle receiving the most pressure. A normal person or a patient should not attempt self-bandaging since compression bandage therapy requires experience and training. Compression bandaging should be applied correctly by podiatrists and wound care specialists, as a loose fit might impede recovery.
What are the benefits of compression bandages for wound healing?
As previously mentioned, a compression bandage is an important aspect of chronic wound management. Chronic venous insufficiency causes venous hypertension and lymphedema, which causes wound healing to be delayed. Through the following method, compression therapy aids wound healing:
- Release of vasoactive mediators
The release of vasoactive anti-inflammatory mediators from endothelial cells is another essential method of compression bandage, improving recovery. Improved wound healing has been attributed to this impact. Furthermore, compression bandage therapy is linked to less peripheral congestion and tissue remodeling, significantly preventing ulcer recurrence.
- Improvised Microcirculation
Venous hypertension is characterized by chronic venous insufficiency, resulting in enhanced ultrafiltration of capillary fluid into the interstitium. Compression therapy aids in the prevention of fluid leakage and enhances lymphatic drainage. It promotes wound healing by increasing local blood flow and oxygenation.
- Improved venous return
A compression bandage applies constant pressure to the lower limb, allowing the calf muscles to work as a “muscle pump.” It allows for more venous return to the heart, reducing edema and pain.
Methods of Compression Therapy
Compression bandages can be used with several clothing or devices to offer patients the right pressure. Compression is commonly used in the following ways:
- Compression bandages can range in elasticity from very low to very high, depending on the material employed. Compression bandages should solely be laid by a trained medical professional or a caretaker. Many bandages are wrapped too loosely in practice, reducing their effectiveness.
- In cases of early decongestion, non-elastic bandages such as zinc paste bandages and other non-elastic bandages may be ineffective. These bandages are placed moist and thicken as they dry to create compression pressure.
- Multilayer bandage systems are pre-made bandage systems that have several cushioning, compression, and fixation components. Visual indicators are sometimes included in these multilayer systems to aid in reaching ideal pressure.
- Compression socks or stockings are a middle ground between elastic and inelastic bandage solutions in terms of compression. Many patients find them simple, while arthritic people may find them difficult. When ulcers are present, stockings are usually the primary treatment option.
- Intermittent pneumatic compression: Intermittent pneumatic compression therapy devices function by putting the extremities in a deflated cuff and then adjusting the pressure gradient, duration, and interval with an electronic control device.
Many factors influence which compression therapy best fits a patient’s clinical needs, including mobility, exercise needs, optimal pressure, and how much support they have to change bandages or stockings.
Benefits of covering wounds with a bandage
There are numerous benefits for a wound to be treated well. The most important treatment for a wound is to cover them. Here is some reason why you need to cover up your wounds:
- The cut will create a scab if it is not covered with a clean, protective covering, like a band-aid. The scab will prevent the wound from bleeding, but it will also prevent new cells from substituting the ones that have died or been impaired. The crusty scab may accentuate scarring.
- It’s less uncomfortable to keep a wound moist.
- New skin cells rush in when the wound is wet and quickly replace the injured ones.
The most effective techniques for a wound to be covered by bandages
Leaving a cut exposed to the air is like leaving your clothes untailored if they have holes. Filth and rubble will surely find a way inside it. Airing it out also increases the likelihood that the wound may leave a visible scar. Keeping a cut or wound clean and covered by a compression bandage is the best thing you can do for it. Here are some of the most helpful approaches for a wound covered by bandages:
- Clean it completely and thoroughly.
- If the cut is new, clean it with an antibiotic ointment or spray.
- Apply an antibiotic ointment or barrier cream in a thin layer to the affected area. It will keep air out while keeping moisture in.
- Cover it with a bandage, especially a compression bandage, to keep it moist and clean.
- Apply wound cleansers to the location every time you reapply the bandage in the following days. The important thing is that it stays moist throughout the healing process. Five days should suffice for most small wounds and cuts.
- Without the wet barrier, bandaging is ineffective. The ointments will keep it moist while keeping the air out. In addition, without the barrier cream, freshly created skin may adhere to the bandage and come off with each change.
Final Thoughts
Although compression bandages have several advantages for individuals suffering from venous problems and edema, it is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. There are several approaches for achieving the proper pressure gradient and preventing problems in a way that is convenient for the patient.
To hasten healing, relieve comfort, and minimize scarring, keep the wound moist and covered by a compression bandage. Avoid getting sunburned in the area for up to six months to avoid a visible scar. A friendly reminder from us here at AvaCare Medical. For more information, please email us here at info@avacaremedical.com or contact us here at 1-877-813-7799.
