Use of an inelastic bandage as an adaptation of the lymphatic drainage technique in lower limbs.

The inelastic bandage is an adaptation of the manual lymphatic drainage, which substitutes the circular movements of the fingers. A patient with lymphoedema underwent 20 sessions using the modified lymphatic drainage technique. Perimetric measurements were taken before and after each session, and volumetric measurements at the first, 10th, and 20th sessions. Limb circumference was significantly reduced at three points on the perimeter (10, 15 and 25 cm): 2.5 cm (7.3%), 2.5 cm (6.5%) and 1.5 cm (5%), respectively. Volumetry decrease of 26.4% from initial limb volume was observed. The use of the inelastic bandage proved to be an effective adaptation when compared with the results using other techniques described.