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In building a multi-layer bandage for the
treatment of lymphedema, it is important to include the proper
components. It is especially important to equalize the pressure of the
short stretch bandage layers by even distribution of the compression they
deliver. The most economical way to achieve this is to include foam sheeting
in the bandage.
Foam sheets, cut to fit the limb, help to
create a continuous compression gradient from distal to proximal. Open cell
foam also has a texture that helps massage the limb. This massage action
continues the treatment after the patient has left the clinic. The right
foam will accelerate treatment results, address fibrosis and will increase
patient comfort.
The use of foam also helps soften pressure on
bony prominences and helps to protect the limb from extremes of bandage
pressures, increasing patient comfort and safety.
Not all foams are created
equal.
Different foams of the same thickness can have very different working
characteristics. We have selected open cell, latex-free foam that has the
functional profile needed for effective multi-layer lymphedema bandaging.
Our grey foam can be cut to shape and trimmed
as needed as the limb reduces.
At a glance:
v Evenly
distribute bandage pressures
v Break
down fibrosis
v Remodel
the limb to achieve normal contours
v Continue
MLD effect long after treatment has ended
v Accelerate
treatment results
v Provide
a healing environment for the limb
v Can be
trimmed or replaced economically on a rapidly reducing limb
Bandaging With Grey Foam
Grey foam is a material commonly
used in multi-layer lymphedema bandaging. This inert, open cell, latex-free
polyurethane foam is offered by suppliers of lymphedema bandaging products
available to the North American market. In many lymphedema therapy schools,
training incorporates the use of grey foam as a padding material and
therapists are instructed as to its proper use.
The layers of multi-layer lymphedema bandaging to be applied
are as follows:
v
Lotion
v
Stockinette
(tubular gauze)
v
Cast
padding (Cellona, Artiflex or other)
v
Cut
or shaped pieces of grey foam padding, or other foam padding.
v
Fixing
bandage to hold grey foam in place (usually gauze). Optional.
v
Short
stretch bandaging layers.
Our recommendations:
For
an arm bandage: ¼” foam
or Channel Foam
For
a leg bandage: ½” foam
or Channel Foam
We also offer 1” foam to use on
particularly dense fibrotic tissue in the lower extremity applications.
If you have never used this,
please ask us about it before ordering.
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