Comparison of Boosted Compression Therapy Versus Standard Care for Treating Lower Limb Chronic Edema

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a new approach to treating chronic edema or lymphedema of the lower limbs. This trial aims to compare boosted compression therapy, which involves applying a multicomponent short stretch compression bandage three times daily, with the standard care of a single daily compression bandage application. The study focuses on whether boosted compression can reduce treatment duration and maintain edema reduction over time. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the experimental group receiving boosted compression therapy or the control group receiving standard complex decongestive therapy including skin care, lymph drainage, compression bandaging, and exercises. The intensive treatment phase uses these therapies, followed by a maintenance phase lasting one year to monitor long-term effects. The boosted compression bandage can be applied by the patient or caregivers, while standard therapy is applied once daily by a physiotherapist. During the study, participants will be assessed regularly for changes in edema volume, tissue water content, and the time needed to achieve a non-pitting edema state. Additional evaluations will include quality of life, patient acceptance, adherence to treatment, and cost-effectiveness. Questionnaires, diaries, and clinical measurements will be collected throughout the intensive and maintenance phases, with follow-up visits up to one year after treatment completion.

Boosted Compression for Lower Limb Chronic Edema