What degree of graduated compression at the ankle is recommended for healing a venous leg ulcer in a patient with a palpable pedal pulse?
- A 10 to 20 mmHg
- B 20 to 25 mmHg
- C 30 to 40 mmHg ✓
- D 45 to 60 mmHg
Correct answer: C. 30 to 40 mmHg
Explanation
High compression of 30 to 40 mmHg at the ankle, delivered by multilayer bandaging or graded stockings, is the standard of care for venous ulceration and heals significantly more ulcers than low compression. Pressures below 20 mmHg are ineffective because they fail to counteract ambulatory venous hypertension. Pressures above 45 mmHg risk skin and arterial compromise. Compression is contraindicated if the ankle brachial index is below 0.5 to 0.8 depending on protocol.
Reference: Bailey and Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 28th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.