Counseling Sheet

Agatha M. Thrash, M.D.

Preventive Medicine

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Unna Boot

For varicose or stasis dermatitis and stasis ulcers, one of the most effective remedies ever devised is that of the Unna boot.

It is a rigid bandage, which supports both the skin as well as the veins and clears a severe case of dermatitis in an almost miraculous way. The formula for making the Unna paste to be used for the bandage is as follows:

• Two-thirds cup zinc oxide
• One and one-third cup glycerin
• One and one-half cup water

Directions

Fill a measuring cup to the 200 milliliter line with gelatin (the animal gelatin obtained from a grocery store under the name of Knox gelatin can be used).

Pour the gelatin into the water stirring constantly. Allow the mixture to stand ten minutes. Heat in a double boiler, until the gelatin dissolves. Add the zinc oxide, which has previously been rubbed to a smooth paste with the glycerin, using a rubber spatula from the kitchen. Carefully stir the zinc oxide into the melted gelatin, until a smooth jelly results. Set aside in a warm place.

Wrap the foot from the base of the toes around the ankle and up the leg two inches or more above the upper edge of stasis dermatitis and/or stasis ulcer. One or two layers only of roller gauze are required. The heel and the toes should be left free from the gauze wrap. Using a small paintbrush, paint the warm (check to make certain it is not too hot) liquid Unna paste over the layer of bandage until it is saturated. Then roll a second layer of gauze over the Unna paste, again using one or two layers of gauze. The method of wrapping the roller gauze onto the leg is identical to that used for an ace bandage. Do not pull the gauze tight, only snug. Allow the paste to harden at least ten minutes before walking on it. Full hardening requires up to two hours, depending on the temperature of the room and the humidity.

If the ulcer is not infected, the boot can be left on up to two weeks, if it is kept dry and cool. If it becomes ragged or soft, it can be replaced at any time, or if it becomes saturated with ooze. When the bandage is to be removed, cut it off with sturdy kitchen shears, or it can be soaked in warm water for a few minutes and cut off with ordinary household scissors. The leg and foot are then rinsed and wiped clean before the application of the next Unna boot.

Unna Boot Paste

• Zinc oxide 28 grams (1 1/2 oz)
• Gelatin 25 grams (1 oz)
• Glycerin 120 cc (1/2 C)
• Water 80 cc (3 oz)