Different compressive bandages for chronic venous deficiency and lymphedema, are categorized. These categories are not based on the bandage technique itself, but on its effect. The aims of the compression vary in accordance to whether the case involves a diffuse edema brought on by chronic venous deficiency or by lateral trophic problems following malfunctioning of the perforating veins, or difficulties in transporting tissue from the lymphedemas. These various etiological factors must be taken into consideration in the design and use of compressive bandages.