DEVELOPMENT OF A COMPRESSIONAL BANDAGE FOR PROSPECTIVE USE BY PATIENTS

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to develop a short stretch weft knitted compression bandage that increases the venous flow of blood through the venous system without causing discomfort to the patient. Data collected showed that bandagesin the Zimbabwean market for treating varicose veins exert high resting pressure and low working pressure resulting in an increase in the healing time. The bandages used for treatment of varicose veins must exert high working pressure in order to provide enough compression to reduce the diameter of the veins, thereby increasing the blood flow velocity reducing oedema. The bandage should also be comfortably when worn by patients in a resting position. A short stretch bandage with a blend of lycra and cotton yarns was developed on a V-bed weft knitting machine. The stitch notation was varied by use of full factorial experimental design to give optimum bandage pressure profile.Tests were carried out using a Tensometric machine to measure the pressure profile of the bandage. The tests showed that the compression bandage had the desired pressure profile for reducing oedema. The compression bandage was put on trial with selected patients and their healing process monitored. Questionnaires and assessment of patients during their regular check-up was made to track effectiveness of the bandage. Based on these trials it was concluded that the proposed bandage accelerates the healing process and had improved comfort properties.