Use of Compression Therapy as Preventive Strategy for Recurrent Cellulitis on the Lower Legs

BACKGROUND: Recurrent cellulitis of the lower limbs is a significant clinical challenge, with chronic oedema and
impaired lymphatic function identified as key risk factors. While long-term antibiotic prophylaxis is commonly
recommended, compression therapy has been proposed as a potential preventive measure, but evidence
supporting its effectiveness remains limited.
AIM: This study aimed to evaluate whether compression therapy, in addition to standard antibiotic and supportive
treatment, reduces the recurrence rate of cellulitis in patients with a history of recurrent cellulitis on the lower legs.
METHODS: A randomized controlled study was conducted over two years in a dermatology department. Seventy
three patients with a history of recurrent cellulitis were randomized into two groups: one receiving compression
therapy along with standard antibiotic and supportive treatment (n=36) and a control group receiving only standard
treatment (n=37). Patients were followed for two years to assess recurrence rates. Secondary outcomes included
hospital length of stay and reduction in leg oedema. Data distribution was tested with the Shapiro-Wilk's W test.
Qualitative data of patients with and without relapse were compared with non-parametric tests, quantitative data
were compared with Student's t-test.
RESULTS: The recurrence rate was significantly lower in the compression therapy group (13.89%) compared to
the control group (37.84%) (p=0.0197). Patients receiving compression therapy also had a significantly greater
reduction in leg oedema by day four of hospitalization (p=0.005) and a shorter length of hospital stay (p=0.0006).
CONCLUSION: In this randomized controlled study, using the compressive therapy resulted in lower rate of cellulitis
recurrence compared to the standard treatment of cellulitis. These findings support the inclusion of compression
therapy in the management strategies for recurrent cellulitis. Further studies are warranted to reinforce these results
and optimize treatment protocols.