Open-label, randomised, multicentre crossover trial assessing two-layer compression bandaging for chronic venous insufficiency: results of the APRICOT trial

Background Compression bandaging is the mainstay therapy for chronic venous insufficiency and venous leg ulcers, but patient compliance can be challenging due to associated discomfort. Aims Comparison of AndoFlex® TLC Calamine versus Coban2® compression bandaging in relation to patient comfort and related pruritus symptomology, with severity of pruritus scale as primary outcome. Methods Multi-centre, prospective, non-blinded, randomised controlled crossover trial involving 39 randomised participants. Two periods for chronic venous insufficiency patients, to wear either AndoFlex® TLC Calamine or Coban2® for three weeks each. Findings No significant differences in validated pruritus outcome measures were observed, including a non-significant treatment effect for the severity of pruritus scale (n = 35 trial completers, p-value 0.24, Wilcoxon test). However, after trying both bandages, 21 out of 35 patients (60%) definitely preferred AndoFlex® TLC Calamine whereas 4 patients (11%) definitely preferred Coban2®. Conclusion AndoFlex® TLC Calamine compression bandage therapy is preferred by the majority of patients, although this observation could not be confirmed using validated patient-reported outcome measures for pruritus. Further research is indicated to establish if patient preference translates into favourable clinical outcomes.