Alginate hydrocolloid impregnated zinc paste bandages-an alternative in the management of lymphoedema?

Abstract

Several studies have shown an impressive reduction in swelling as a result of compression, and inelastic bandages have become widely accepted as a part of lymphatic decongestive therapy for managing lymphoedema.Lymphoedema bandaging is indicated to reduce swelling, improve limb shape, skinand tissue-condition and to ameliorate symptoms such as discomfort. Compression therapy for lymphoedema is based mainly on the use of inelastic, short-stretch bandages with high compression, usually protecting the skin with polyurethane foam bandages. In this preliminary report it is shown that completely rigid material like zinc paste applied without padding provides a good level of efficacy.

Compression materials in chronic edema

“…Stiff material out of cotton wool and polyamid, sometimes gauze, imprignated with zincoxid and calamine, sticks on the skin, does a very good reduction due to the stiffness, but will be loosen up after a few hours (Figure 2). 5,16 Disadvantage: it cannot be used for a second time.…”

Stiffness of compression devices

“…16,17 Actually stiff materials exerting strong or very strong pressure showed to be clinically effective in ulcer treatment 16,18,19 when a significant impact on venous hemodynamics is very important and also in lymphoedema. 20 Pressure and stiffness can be critically reduced in some areas of the leg with concave rather than convex shape as this is the case in the retro-malleolar space. Unfortunately this is a critical area where often venous ulcers occur.…”