There are approximately 7.6 million venous leg ulcers (VLUs) in the world requiring medical treatment (ref: MedMarket diligence report 2007) at an estimated cost of $7.3bn in the US and $9.2bn in the EU (ref: Olin et al, 1999).

Hard-to-heal wounds that have not responded favourably to standard-of-care bandages cause patients much physical and emotional suffering. They are costly and frustrating to clinical professionals and are a growing burden on healthcare providers. Published clinical data on compression bandages in this patient group is less than impressive.

Hard-to-heal wounds can mean a lifetime of physical and emotional suffering with reduced mobility, severe pain and clinical depression.

Comparison of hard-to-heal VLUs at 24 weeks.

Only 22% of hard-to-heal venous leg ulcers heal after 24 weeks of standard compression bandage treatment.

It is estimated that hard-to-heal wounds cost 4 times more to treat (ref: VenUS 1 Study, HTA 2004).

• Costs can rise to €10,800pa per patient in Europe and $40,000pa in North America.
• Estimated annual healthcare costs:
  UK = £600 million
  EU = €6.5 billion
  US = $3.5 billion
• 12 month recurrence rates of 26-69% have been reported.