Supervised self-management of lower limb swelling using FarrowWrap

Abstract

The use of FarrowWrap™ as an alternative to multilayer lymphoedema bandaging (MLLB) can provide an efficient, cost-effective treatment for patients with all types of chronic and lymphoedema oedema. In addition, used within supervised self-management, it allows for the patient to gain control and confidence of their long-term condition, giving greater independence. This article discusses the theory of MLLB and introduces FarrowWrap, an alternative wrapping system offering flexible compression treatment for a range of oedemas. Case studies are included to illustrate varied uses of FarrowWrap and how it can be implemented into clinical practice.

A review of the evidence for adjustable compression wrap devices

“…They are designed for self-application over the short or long term, enabling the patient or carer to apply or adjust the device as required, in their own setting. [10][11][12] …”

“…15 A more substantial series of descriptive papers has discussed the FarrowWrap system for lymphoedema, originally brought to the UK market by Haddenham Healthcare. 11,[16][17][18][19] FarrowWrap is an adjustable hook and loop fastener system with multiple overlapping neoprene bands, interconnected by a spine. A case study described its' use in a young women with low mood who was not keen to have intensive bandaging treatment.…”

“…For example, exploring claims that an adjustable compression wrap works in a similar way to an inelastic bandage system. 10,11 Further work is required to evaluate and contrast the effect of the products with different groups: for example, individuals who undergo liposuction for lymphoedema or lipoedema 39 ; or in people with different skin and tissue conditions such as the soft pliable tissues in someone with lipoedema, and the hard fibrotic tissues characteristic of late stage lymphoedema. 40 Selfmanagement remains poorly understood and researched 41 , so further work is required to ensure practitioners and patients have appropriate support with new and different ways of working with patients, and are familiar with the various key aspects of self-management that complement the use of an adjustable compression wrap device.…”

An updated review of the evidence for adjustable compression wrap devices in the lower limb

“…They are designed for self-application over the short or long term, enabling the patient or carer to apply or adjust the device as required. [10][11][12] Several product types are described in the literature, including the CircAid, the Juxta-Fit and JuxtaCURES systems from medi UK, the Jobst FarrowWrap, the Haddenham easywrap, and the ReadyWrap adjustable compression garment from Lohmann and Rauscher. The devices are available in different sizes, and various foot piece, leg piece or thigh piece sections.…”

Redefining essential care in lymphoedema

“…The introduction of FarrowWrap (Haddenham Healthcare), a velcro wrapping system based on short-stretch bandaging technology, has resulted in clinicians being able to reduce the amount of time spent bandaging as well as reduce the number of visits required within the community setting. This in turn has enabled better management of the patient's condition, as the velcro straps can be tightened as the limb reduces, improving patient outcomes (Wigg, 2012;Belgrado et al, 2013). Patients are able to remove and reapply FarrowWrap to enable daily skin care and monitoring of skin conditions.…”