Progressive compression versus graduated compression for the management of venous insufficiency

Venous leg ulceration (VLU) is a chronic condition associated with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), where the most frequent complication is recurrence of ulceration after healing. Traditionally, graduated compression therapy has been shown to increase healing rates and also to reduce recurrence of VLU. Graduated compression occurs because the circumference of the limb is narrower at the ankle, thereby producing a higher pressure than at the calf, which is wider, creating a lower pressure. This phenomenon is explained by the principle known as Laplace's Law. Recently, the view that compression therapy must provide a graduated pressure gradient has been challenged. However, few studies so far have focused on the potential benefits of progressive compression where the pressure profile is inverted. This article will examine the contemporary concept that progressive compression may be as effective as traditional graduated compression therapy for the management of CVI.