Measurement of lower leg compression in vivo:: Recommendations for the performance of measurements of interface pressure and stiffness

BACKGROUND Interface pressure and stiffness characterizing the elastic properties of the material are the deciding parameters determining the dosage of compression treatment and should therefore be measured in future clinical trials. AIM The aim of this consensus paper is to provide some recommendations regarding the use of suitable methods for this indication. METHOD This paper was formulated based on the results of an international consensus meeting between a group of medical experts and representatives from the industry held in January 2005 in Vienna, Austria. RESULTS Proposals are made concerning methods for measuring the interface pressure and for assessing the stiffness of a compression device in an individual patient. CONCLUSIONS In vivo measurement of interface pressure is encouraged when clinical and experimental outcomes of compression treatment are to be evaluated.