Venous leg ulcers (VLU) are the most common lower-limb wounds in Italy, representing 80% of cases. Yet, only 11% of patients currently receive appropriate treatment. The recent Ulisse Project (2025)[1] reinforces this finding: 30% of healthcare professionals reported organizational, informational, and training barriers, while 29% stated they do not use any device at all for VLU management.
These figures confirm the urgent need for targeted educational initiatives to improve knowledge, training and the proper adoption of compression therapy across the Italian healthcare system.
A THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE
During the 2025 National AIUC Congress, the URGO Foundation hosted two symposia on November 20th and 21st, dedicated to compression therapy and led by renowned cardiovascular and wound care HCPs.
The first session focused on theoretical insights, including clinical perspectives and patient testimonies. The second combined theory with a hands-on workshop on bandaging techniques, encouraging interaction through Q&A sessions and quizzes. More than 300 healthcare professionals involved in VLU management attended, including those with limited experience in compression therapy techniques.
RAISING AWARENESS AND IMPROVING SKILLS
The main objectives were to strengthen education on compression therapy and broaden awareness of best practices in VLU management. Specifically, the project aimed to:
- Address the knowledge and practice gaps identified in recent clinical evidence,
- Share updated clinical insights and real-life patient experiences
- Strengthen practical skills through live demonstrations
To ensure wide dissemination of the project’s educational content, the sessions were recorded and shared via specialized media channels such as Nurse 24, expanding awareness among healthcare professionals. The events improved immediate awareness and understanding of compression therapy among attending HCPs: feedback was overwhelmingly positive, especially for the practical workshop. Many participants requested additional guidance on bandaging techniques, confirming the relevance and impact of the initiative.
FOR LONG-TERM PATIENT BENEFIT
By promoting the consistent and correct use of compression therapy, we aim to close the gap between guidelines and real-world practice, ensuring long-term benefits for patients across Italy.
This initiative represents another important step toward better patient outcomes.
“At the URGO Foundation, we work with consistency and dedication for the well-being of patients. This is what unites us and guides us.” Agnese TORELLI – Project Manager Italy, URGO Foundation
[1] Progetto ULISSE (2025). Analisi di utilizzo dei dispositivi medici per la gestione delle lesioni cutanee. LIUC Business School
