The use of a collagen matrix in hard-to-heal venous leg ulcers.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

The effects of a collagen dressing on hard-to-heal venous leg ulcers (vlUs) were evaluated in this prospective, randomised, controlled study.

METHOD:

Patients with hard-to-heal vlU were included and divided into two groups using the block randomisation method. The first group was treated with a collagen and an alginate dressing (group A), and the second group with an alginate dressing alone (group b). both groups also had a short-stretch compression system applied at every dressing change. The dressings were changed twice a week for 12 weeks or until the ulcer was healed. Granulation tissue improvement, wound size, overall dressing performance and dressing comfort were evaluated and recorded.

RESULTS:

A total of 40 patients completed the study evaluation period. Group A had a 65% increase in granulation tissue compared to 38% in group b. The mean ulcer area was reduced to 45% in group A compared to 20% in group b at 12 weeks. no significant side effects were detected in either group. Patients of both groups were satisfied with their treatment and healing progress.

CONCLUSION:

The results of this study showed the effectiveness and safety of a collagen dressing in hard-to-heal vlUs as an adjunctive therapy with compression bandaging. These encouraging results may positively affect the quality of life of patients with chronic wounds.

• Authors: M Romanelli, G Mulder, B Paggi, M Macchia, S Panduri, V Dini
• Journal: Journal of wound care (J Wound Care) Vol. 24 Issue 11 Pg. 543-4, 546-7 (Nov 2015) ISSN: 0969-0700 [Print] England
• PMID: 26551647 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Collagen

Topics

• Aged
• Bandages
• Chronic Disease
• Collagen
• Female
• Humans
• Leg Ulcer (nursing, therapy)
• Male
• Skin Care (nursing)
• Treatment Outcome
• Wound Healing