Haemodynamic effect of a leg compression bandage on the distal posterior tibial artery using 4D flow magnetic resonance imaging: A quantitative study

Abstract

The uncertainty concerning the physiological effects of compression bandaging on the peripheral blood flow is a challenge for healthcare professionals. The main objective was to determine the haemodynamic impact on the distal posterior tibial artery after the application of a high-compression leg multicomponent bandaging system using 4D flow magnetic resonance imaging. Leg dominance disparities of the posterior tibial artery before and after the application of the compressive bandage were also analysed. Twenty-eight healthy female volunteers were recruited (mean: 25.71, standard deviation: 4.74 years old) through a non-probability convenience sampling. The 4D flow magnetic resonance imaging of the distal tibial posterior artery was performed in all participants, first under standard resting conditions and after the application of a compression bandage in the leg. When the strong compressive bandage was applied, the area of the assessed artery decreased by 14.2%, whilst the average speed increased by 19.6% and the flow rate increased by 184.8%. There were differences between the haemodynamic parameters of both legs according to dominance, being statistically significantly lower in the dominant leg. The application of strong compressive bandaging significantly increases the arterial flow and mean velocity in the distal segment of the posterior tibial artery, in healthy volunteers by 4D flow magnetic resonance imaging. In this study, leg dominance influenced some of the haemodynamic parameters. According to the results, leg compression bandages cannot be contraindicated in vascular ulcers with arterial compromise.