Frequently Asked Questions about PROFORE
Q: What is PROFORE?
A: PROFORE is a multi-layer compression bandaging system consisting of 5 components: a sterile wound contact layer; a padding bandage; a light conformable bandage; a light compression bandage and a flexible cohesive bandage.
Q: How much compression does PROFORE deliver?
A: Current understanding is that optimum compression therapy is achieved with a sub-bandage pressure of 40mm Hg at the ankle. This has become the benchmark pressure for compression bandages).
PROFORE is designed to apply sustained graduated pressure of 40mmHg to the ankle area decreasing to 17mm Hg at the knee. It is supplied in 4 compression strengths to cover all sizes of ankle.
Q: How does compression heal a leg ulcer?
A: Compression helps to reverse the venous insufficiency in the leg, healing any damage and helping to direct the flow of blood back towards the heart.
Q: What wound contact layers can be used under PROFORE?
A:PROFORE has been developed to work with PROFORE WCL (TRICOTEX*) a low adherent wound contact layer consisting of a single layer of knitted, bright viscose.
Q: Can PROFORE be used on patients with a history of DVT?
A: It is unlikely that compression would exert any effects on the deep veins and so compression is not contra-indicated. Elastic Compression is considered to be an indispensable complement to anti-coagulant treatment for DVT. Venous insufficiency is a risk factor for DVT, compression therapy improves this condition
Q: Does PROFORE contain latex?
A: Yes, the standard kit contains latex, however there are latex free formulation kits available for all ankle circumferences and compression variants which are specially formulated with no latex containing ingredients.
Q: Does PROFORE Latex Free contain ingredients that may cause allergic reactions?
A: No, PROFORE Latex Free formulation is free from potential known allergens such as colophony, thiuram and carbamate. However, to be 100% sure, patch testing is recommended prior to use.
Q: What is the shelf life for PROFORE?
A: The shelf life of PROFORE is 3 years.
Q: How is PROFORE WCL sterilised?
A: PROFORE WCL (TRICOTEX) is sterilised using gamma radiation.
Q: What is the wear time of PROFORE?
A: PROFORE can be worn for up to 7 days, depending on the level of exudate. At the start of treatment it may be necessary to change the bandage twice a week as the oedema reduces.
PROFORE Lite delivers 23mm Hg pressure and can be worn on the leg for up to 7 days.
Q: When should I use PROFORE?
A: PROFORE should be used on venous leg ulcers and associated conditions.
Q: Why is PROFORE available in 4 kit sizes?
A: PROFORE has been designed to provide the correct level of compression for all ankle circumferences. Most conventional bandages are only available in one size. On larger ankle circumferences the pressure delivered by these bandages will be less than the optimum 40mm Hg.
PROFORE is available in 4 sizes to ensure that every ankle circumference receives the correct level of compression.
Q: How do I write a PROFORE prescription and what are the components of each kit?
Kit <18cm ankle circumference="PROFORE" #1(x2), #2, #3, #4 and wcl>
Kit 18 - 25cm ankle circumference = PROFORE #1, #2, #3, #4 and WCL
Kit 25 - 30cm ankle circumference = PROFORE #1, #4, + and WCL
Kit > 30cm ankle circumference = PROFORE #1, #3, #4, + and WCL
PROFORE Lite = PROFORE#1, #2, #4 and WCL
Kits can now also be prescribed as above.
Q: Why is the third layer applied in a figure of 8 technique?
A: This technique ensures the sub-layers are held in place and ensures the correct pressure level is applied to the limb.
Q: Why aren't all bandages applied in a figure of 8 technique?
A: By crossing the bandages on the tibia, localised pressure on the bone is increased which may cause pressure damage.
Q: Should you measure the ankle before or after padding with PROFORE #1?
A: If the leg is very thin, you should measure before and after padding to ensure that the correct kit is selected. For example, if an ankle measures 15cm before padding, but 18cm after padding, then the 18-25cm kit should be applied. The narrower the leg the higher the level of pressure is delivered.
Q: Why is the bandage slipping between applications?
A: Check the consistency of bandaging to ensure it isn't under stretched at the top of the limb. Ensure the padding layer is used to achieve a graduated leg shape as a basis for bandage application.
Q: How do patients tolerate PROFORE?
A: The rapid improvement of the venous return delivered by sustained graduated pressure relieves the internal tension in the leg and gives a lightening feeling. As a result patient tolerance is very high.

References
1Blair, SD, Wright DI et al. Sustained compression and healing of chronic venous ulcers. BMJ (1988): 297:1159-1161