Compression bandages are used to apply pressure, either to control oedema or in the treatment of venous leg ulceration. The use of graduated compression bandaging, properly applied, and combined with exercise, is the treatment of choice in venous ulceration. A diagnosis of venous ulceration must be confirmed by Doppler studies before compression bandaging is applied. Compression bandaging should never be used in the treatment of arterial leg ulcers.

High compression bandages

K-ThreeC

• Extensible bandage, 3m (unstretched), 10cm (£3.06)

Short stretch compression bandages

Short stretch compression bandaging is used to help reduce oedema and promote healing of venous leg ulcers. They are also used to reduce swelling associated with lymphoedema.

These dressings are applied at full stretch over padding, which protects areas of high pressure and sites at high risk of pressure damage.

Actico

• Bandage, cohesive, 6m (all): 4cm (£2.61), 6cm (£3.06), 8cm (£3.52), 10cm (£3.65), 12cm (£4.66)

Sub-compression wadding bandage

K-Soft

• Padding, absorbent, 3.5m unstretched (£0.49) 4.5m unstretched (£0.61)