From the Guidelines
Compression Stockings with ABI Value of 0.9
It is generally not recommended to use compression stockings with an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) value of 0.9, as this may indicate peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and compression stockings could potentially worsen the condition.
- ABI values between 0.4 and 0.9 are considered indicative of PAD, and caution should be exercised when using compression stockings in these cases 1, 2.
- However, for ankle-brachial indices between 0.9 to 0.6, reduced compression to 20 to 30 mm Hg is successful and safe for VLU healing 1.
- If compression stockings are necessary, a lower compression level (around 20-30 mmHg) may be considered under close medical supervision, but this should be determined on a case-by-case basis by a qualified healthcare professional 1, 2.
- Caution is advised when the ankle-brachial index is <0.6 because it indicates an arterial anomaly needing revascularization 1, 2.
- Proper fitting, education, and detailed instructions are essential to encourage adherence to compression therapy 1, 2.
- Velcro inelastic compression was noted to be as good as 3- or 4-layer inelastic bandages for wound healing 1, 2.
From the Research
Compression Stockings and Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI)
- The use of compression stockings with an ABI value of 0.9 is a topic of interest in the medical field.
- According to the study 3, compression stockings can be safe for individuals with an ankle-brachial index ≥ 0.5, but it does not specifically address an ABI value of 0.9.
- Another study 4 suggests that patients with an ABI < 0.9 should have at least 3-monthly reviews, including ABI measurements, but does not provide direct guidance on the use of compression stockings with an ABI value of 0.9.
ABI Values and Compression Stocking Safety
- The study 3 investigated the safety and effectiveness of a specific type of compression stocking for patients with both chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and peripheral artery disease (PAD), with an ankle-brachial index of < 0.9 and > 0.5.
- The results showed that the compression stocking tested was safe for individuals with an ankle-brachial index ≥ 0.5, with no skin damage observed.
- However, the study 5 found that non-compressible ABIs are associated with an increased risk of major amputation and major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with critical limb ischemia, highlighting the importance of careful consideration when using compression stockings with ABI values < 0.9.
Compression Therapy and ABI Values
- The study 6 found that mild compression therapy (18-25 mm Hg) can reduce lower extremity edema in patients with diabetes without negatively impacting vascularity, with a mean ankle-brachial index of 1.10 ± 0.21.
- However, this study does not directly address the use of compression stockings with an ABI value of 0.9.
- The study 7 examined the prevalence and independent predictors of an abnormal ABI (< 0.90) in asymptomatic older adults, but does not provide guidance on the use of compression stockings with an ABI value of 0.9.