SIGVARIS Premium Cotton Compression Apparels 221 Class 1 Open Toe Calf

Product Overview

The SIGVARIS Cotton 220 Series is manufactured in Switzerland by SIGVARIS AG under RAL-GZ 387/1 German medical compression certification. Class 1 (Kompressionsklasse 1) delivers 18-21 mmHg at the ankle with graduated pressure decrement along the leg, a level appropriate for patients with early symptomatic venous disease, mild oedema, and prophylactic use without severe valvular incompetence.

The A-D (ad genu) calf length terminates two finger-widths below the popliteal crease, avoiding popliteal constriction during flexion. The open-toe configuration preserves forefoot visibility for skin inspection, accommodates hallux valgus or digital deformity, and allows flexible footwear fit. The interior-cotton knit places mercerised Swiss cotton against the skin for moisture management, while the durable outer elastomeric blend sustains interface pressures across the recommended six-month service life.

Specifications

Clinical Indications

• Early chronic venous disease CEAP C1 (telangiectasia, reticular veins) and C2 (varicose veins)
• Heavy, aching legs; orthostatic lower-limb oedema in sedentary or standing occupations
• Mild pregnancy-related venous symptoms when Class 1 compression is clinically appropriate
• Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis during prolonged air travel in high-risk passengers
• Post-sclerotherapy for small-calibre reticular veins where Class 2 is not tolerated
• Maintenance compression after Class 2 therapy, stepping down with physician guidance

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between Class 1 and Class 2 compression?
A: Class 1 (18-21 mmHg) is indicated for early symptomatic venous disease, prevention, and mild oedema. Class 2 (23-32 mmHg) is required for established CEAP C3-C5 disease, varicose veins with significant reflux, and post-thrombotic syndrome. Class selection should follow duplex ultrasound findings and vascular specialist assessment.

Q: Why is the interior-cotton construction preferred for daily wear?
A: The interior-cotton knit reduces contact irritation in patients with atopic skin, pruritus, or long-term compression wearers. It improves moisture handling in humid climates such as Singapore, supporting adherence to daily wear schedules required for therapeutic benefit.

Q: How should I measure to select the correct size?
A: Take ankle circumference (cB) at the narrowest point above the malleoli, calf circumference (cC) at the widest point, and A-D length from the floor to two finger-widths below the popliteal crease. Measurements should be taken in the morning before oedema accumulates. Size selection follows the official SIGVARIS size chart.

Q: What are the contraindications and cautions?
A: Contraindications include peripheral arterial disease (ABPI < 0.5), decompensated cardiac failure, septic phlebitis, severe diabetic microangiopathy, and cotton allergy. Relative cautions include ABPI 0.5-0.8, neuropathy, and fragile skin; these cases require clinician supervision for donning and skin surveillance.

Q: Are these stockings approved for sale in Singapore?
A: Yes. SIGVARIS compression stockings are listed with the Singapore Health Sciences Authority (HSA) as medical devices. EMIS is an authorised SIGVARIS distributor supplying Singapore hospitals, polyclinics, vascular surgery clinics, and community pharmacies.