Dr Gavin Hughes was invited to present at the 11th International Lymphoedema Framework Conference held at Nottingham.

Gavin presented on the work SMTL have undertaken in conjunction with Welsh NHS lymphoedema clinicians to independently assess compression garments for NHS Wales Contracts.  The presentation focused on laboratory compression profile testing generated for NWSSP Procurement Services 2022/23 contract and compared results to previous contract exercises.

The test results again identified quality issues with garments supplied in the market, however in general there are positive trends in quality over the years SMTL have been testing compression products for the Welsh NHS.

The presentation concluded with an overview of stiffness testing and questions the assumption that flat knit products have a higher stiffness index compared to circular knit garments.