Africa Bandage System

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This video showcases an *African bandaging system* for wound care, particularly beneficial in resource-limited settings. It utilises readily available materials: a 150cm crepe retention bandage, a 150mm roll of orthopedic wool (synthetic or cotton), a second retention bandage, and tape. The application starts at the ankle and works down over the heel and toe, mirroring short-stretch bandaging theory. Importantly, the bandages are *rolled on without stretching**, following the leg's anatomy. A key feature is **sandwiching the orthopedic wool between two layers of retention bandage**, which improves moisture wicking, comfort in hot climates, and reduces slippage compared to placing wool directly on the skin. Multiple layers are applied in a spiral, with the last layer sometimes reversed. The system is designed to support the calf muscle pump and avoids restriction behind the knee. Taping is done gently to secure the bandage without adding extra pressure. This system is **lightweight and flexible**, allowing patients to walk and wear normal shoes and socks, promoting **patient adherence* and maintaining dignity. With a cost of approximately $10 per week in the presenter's working environment, it offers a *low-cost* solution for managing conditions like venous leg ulcers in the developing world where resources are limited. The presenter, highlights his positive experiences with this system regarding wound healing.

Hiske Smart and Gary Sibbald discuss and demonstrate the African Bandaging System at the South African IIWCC meeting in Cape Town on 2012-01-29.

The Africa Bandage System was developed for warm temperatures and low resource environments