Knee Replacement Bandaging Study (KReBS) evaluating the effect of a two-layer compression bandage system on knee function following total knee arthroplasty: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND: Data from a feasibility study suggest that the use of an inelastic, short-stretch compression bandage following total knee arthroplasty is a safe technique that may improve patient-reported health outcomes, and that it is feasible to recruit to a full-scale study. METHODS: We will conduct a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of 2600 adult patients, which has 80% power to detect a 1 point difference in the Oxford Knee Score (a patient self-reported assessment of knee pain and function) at 52 weeks. Short stretch compression bandaging will be compared with standard wool and crepe bandaging following total knee arthroplasty. Recruitment will take place in orthopaedic units across the United Kingdom. Secondary outcomes include the EuroQol 5 Dimensions (EQ-5D)-5 L and EQ-5D-3 L scores, pain, length of hospital stay, and complications. DISCUSSION: The Knee Replacement Bandaging Study (KReBS) is a large study which aims to contribute to the evidence base for informing clinical decisions for the use of compression bandaging following knee arthroplasty. TRIAL REGISTRATION: International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Register, ISRCTN 87127065. Registered on 20 February 2017. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL: The online version of this article (10.1186/s13063-019-3344-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.