The Sigvaris Ulcer X kit is highly effective in the treatment of venous leg ulcers.

Study aim & design

The aim of this study (1) was to assess the efficacy of a specifically designed compression stocking kit (Sigvaris Ulcer X kit, “Ulcer X”) in the treatment of venous leg ulcers in comparison to standard treatment with short stretch bandages.

The Ulcer X consists of an understocking* worn during all times and an overstocking** worn only during the day. The short stretch bandages were worn day and night.

Participants

26 patients with Ulcer X and 30 patients with short stretch bandages completed the study.

Product information

Understocking: 15–20 mmHg

Overstocking: 23–32 mmHg

Worn together, under- and overstocking exert a pressure of ~ 45 mmHg.

Patient randomization

Group 1: Ulcer X

This group wore the ULCER X kit for 4 months or until the ulcer healed.

• Eligible: n = 30
• Dropout: n = 4 (3 patients with donning difficulties, 1 patient refused to continue)
• Final evaluation: n = 26

Group 2: bandages

This group wore bandages for 4 months or until the ulcer healed.

• Eligible: n = 30
• Dropout: n = 0 
• Final evaluation: n = 30

Both groups did regular clinic visits (tracking of ulcer healing, wound dressing & patient survey).

Results

Primary outcomes = ulcer healing and subjective appraisal by patients

Complete skin closure was better with the Ulcer X (96.2%) compared to the bandages which achieved skin closure in 70% of the patients.

Healing time of ulcers <4 cm was twice as fast with ulcer x compared to bandages. in ulcers>4cm there was no difference in healing time between Ulcer X and bandages.

Ulcer X increased the quality of life for patients. It reduced pain and discomfort and increased participation in activities.

Conclusion

Wearing the Ulcer X kit is more effective in healing venous leg ulcers than conventional bandaging with faster healing of small ulcers <4 cm. this study demonstrates that the sigvaris ulcer x kit can be effectively used for the treatment of venous leg ulcers.>

In addition, the results show that participation in normal activities increases, while pain and discomfort are reduced in patients treated with the Ulcer X kit.