Comparison of the healing rates and complications of three four-layer bandage regimens.

This randomised controlled study compares the healing rates, complications and patient and staff acceptability of three four-layer bandage regimens for leg ulcers. A total of 149 patients were recruited into the study, of whom 50 received the original Charing Cross system (CX4L), 50 a modified Charing Cross system (Parema) and 49 a commercially available kit, Robinson Ultra Four (Robinson). No significant difference was found in the healing rates of the three systems. Overall 12 weeks' healing was 65%, while the 20-week healing rates for the individual systems were 87% (CX4L), 84% (Parema) and 83% (Robinson). Analysis of known risk factors for delayed healing showed that no bandaging system had an advantage over the others. Staff familiarity resulted in an initial preference for the CX4L but there was no bandage preference by the end of the study. The data suggest that none of the systems has an advantage over the others and that cost savings can be made by pursuing a competitive pricing policy.