Evidence-Based Practice
The use of a Dual Compression System (DCS) that combines both long and short stretch bandages allows the achievement of therapeutic pressure under both ambulatory and non-ambulatory conditions. This two-layer system is now part of the two-layer compression bandage landscape in the USA and has been increasingly adopted. We surveyed wound centers that have chosen this new technology, and determined the primary cause of adoption and the abandonment of the older compression systems. We present here the reasons why transitions took place in the top twenty centers utilizing DCS.
Methods:
Using our own internal database, we were able to determine the top 20 users of the Dual Compression System. We contacted both internal leads, as well as the lead clinicians in these centers, where without exception a system of clinician evaluation was used to determine whether the new product was worthy of adoption.
Results:
We tabulate the results as follows. We indicated the location of the center in general terms of geography, which indicates whether the adoption was restricted to hot or cold climates. We indicate the product from which the transition took place, and the reason for the transition. We also state the period post adoption and note if adoption has been reversed in any of the top 20 places (in terms of patient numbers) where the new DCS technology has been adopted.
Discussion:
We note that several types of compression wraps were replaced by DCS. The first, second and third primary reasons of the transitions are. In general, the DCS product is not the lowest cost option at time of purchase. The product in general therefore was adopted on its clinical merits, and the availability of a deep level of evidence, both clinical and health economic, which may have played a role. We did not note any regressions amongst our top 20 users to date.