Proof of Concept, Randomized, and Crossover Study, to Assess the Effectiveness of Two Types of Compression Garments in Lipedema

Lipedema, described by Allen and Hines in 1940, is a syndrome characterized by painful edema in the lower limbs associated with a frequent occurrence of bruises. It mainly affects women and is usually symmetrical.

The management of patients depends on the stage and the presence of edema. In the maintenance phase, the goal is to prevent edema recurrence to avoid an increase in fat deposition in the lower limbs through the use of compression garments.

Currently, there are no guidelines for prescribing compression garments for patients with lipedema regarding the type of garment, fabric, or compression level. Therefore, the prescription by lymphologists is empirical and based on experience.

This study, the first of its kind, aims to assess the effectiveness and tolerance of circular and flat fabric garments in stabilizing the volume of the lower limbs and improving or stabilizing the signs and symptoms of patients with lipedema. The study also aims to determine if there are differences between the two types of garments currently used in routine clinical practice.

In order to provide scientific knowledge to guide these decisions, a prospective randomized crossover experimental study is proposed in patients with lipedema type III, stages 1 and 2, undergoing maintenance treatment with circular compression stockings for a minimum of 6 months. Patients meeting inclusion criteria will be randomized to continue receiving a compression garment with the same circular fabric they were wearing or alternatively switch to a compression garment with flat fabric, both for 6 months.

After 6 months, the study goals will be evaluated, and a simple crossover will be performed, switching to the other type of garment for another 6 months. In other words, patients wearing circular fabric garments will change to flat fabric compression garments and vice versa. At the end of the subsequent 6 months, the study goals will be reassessed once more.

To assess the study goals, we will record several variables related to:

• The effectiveness of circular and flat fabric garments
• Patient satisfaction with the garments
• Compliance with garment use
• Patient complaints about the garments

Therefore, patients will be recieve a follow-up visit at 6 months from the baseline assessment and at 6 months after crossover treatment. Garment usage will be assessed through automated calls every 2 weeks during the whole follow-up period.

Inclusion criteria

• Clinical diagnosis of lipedema: increased lowe-limb volume, disproportion between upper and lower body, and pain.
• Lipedema type III stages 1 or 2.
• Negative pitting sign.
• In maintenance treatment phase with a class II circular-knitted compression garment for at least 6 months.
• Adequate compliance with compression garments (worn during the day, except during personal hygiene and water-related activities).
• Written informed consent to participate.

Exclusion criteria

• Lipedema with fatty lobulations.
• Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2.
• Waist-to-Height Ratio > 0.53.
• Pregnancy.
• Renal, hepatic, or cardiac insufficiency.
• Thrombosis in the lower extremities.
• Infection in the lower extremities.
• Active oncological process.
• Current treatment with corticosteroids and other medications that promote fluid retention.
• Inability to read the Patient Information Form (HIP) and/or provide consent to participate in the study.