Evaluating the Efficacy of the Sigvaris ULCER X Kit in Treating Venous Leg Ulcers: A Comparative Study
This MOH Focus reviews the effects of the Sigvaris ULCER X kit in the treatment of venous leg ulcers. Wearing the ULCER X kit is more effective in healing venous leg ulcers than conventional bandaging with faster healing of small ulcers <4 cm. The paper is also available in French, German, Italian, and Polish.
Study aim & design
The aim of this study (1) was to assess the efficacy of a specifically designed compression stocking kit (Sigvaris ULCER X kit, “ULCER X”) in the treatment of venous leg ulcers in comparison to standard treatment with short stretch bandages.
The ULCER X consists of an understocking* worn during all times and an overstocking** worn only during the day. The short stretch bandages were worn day and night.
Participants
26 patients with ULCER X and 30 patients with short stretch bandages completed the study.
Product information
*Understocking: 15–20 mmHg
**Overstocking: 23–32 mmHg
Worn together, under- and overstocking exert a pressure of ~ 45 mmHg.
Patient randomization
Group 1: ULCER X
Group 1 wore the ULCER X kit for 4 months or until the ulcer healed.
- Eligible: n = 30
- Dropout: n = 4 (3 patients with donning difficulties, 1 patient refused to continue)
- Final evaluation: n = 26
Group 2: BANDAGES
Group 2 wore bandages for 4 months or until the ulcer healed.
- Eligible: n = 30
- Dropout: n = 0
- Final evaluation: n = 30
Both groups did regular clinic visits (tracking of ulcer healing, wound dressing & patient survey).
Results
Primary outcomes = ulcer healing and subjective appraisal by patients
Complete skin closure was better within the ULCER X group (96.2%) compared to the BANDAGES group (70%).
Healing time of ulcers <4 cm was twice as fast with ulcer x compared to bandages. in ulcers>4cm there was no difference in healing time between ULCER X and bandages.
ULCER X increased the quality of life for patients. It reduced pain and discomfort and it increased participation in activities.
Conclusion
Wearing the ULCER X kit is more effective in healing venous leg ulcers than conventional bandaging with faster healing of small ulcers <4 cm. this study demonstrates that the sigvaris ulcer x kit can be effectively used for the treatment of venous leg ulcers.>
In addition, the results show that participation in normal activities increases, while pain and discomfort are reduced in patients treated with the ULCER X kit.
Author's suggestion
Treatment of common venous leg ulcers with the SIGVARIS ULCER X kit is more effective than conventional bandaging and better perceived by patients.