Figure 1.

Results from an international multi-center comparative evaluation demonstrating reproducibility of applied stretch for various compression systems. Four groups, one for each comparative product (Profore^™ [Smith & Nephew], Rosidal^® K [Lohmann & Rauscher], Actico^® [Activa Healthcare Ltd.], and Unna's Boot [Graham-Field Medicopaste^®]), consisting of eight different bandaging experts per group, applied their bandage and the Coban 2 Layer Compression System three times each to an artificial leg. After each application, a 10-cm long line was marked on the applied bandage. The stretch that was produced by the bandage during the application was expressed as an extension ratio obtained by dividing the length of that line by the length of the line after the bandage had been removed from the leg and allowed to relax. For the differences, the percentage change between applications was calculated. Differences were calculated between applications 1 and 2, 1 and 3, and between 2 and 3. A total of 24 values were available to analyze the applicator's consistency in applying stretch during bandaging. A paired t-test was used to compare the different products. The Coban 2 Layer Compression System provided the most consistent stretch.