Classification and nomenclature of current materials for compression therapy

Abstract

Compression therapy has been an essential part of conservative therapy for people with chronic wounds and edema of the lower extremities for hundreds of years. The initiated therapy can be divided into the decongestion phase, maintenance phase, and prevention. The choice of the respective compression materials is based, among other factors, on these phases, the clinical stage and symptoms, the needs of the affected person and their physical abilities. Today, awide range of different materials and methods are available for compression therapy. Thus, it is increasingly difficult to keep an overview of these treatment options, especially since the nomenclature used by the manufacturers is often inconsistent. Thus, the materials and methods for compression therapy currently available in German-speaking countries and their clinical indications are described in this review article. In addition, auniform nomenclature is proposed, on the basis of which an appropriate exchange between all those involved in the care of people with compression therapy is guaranteed.