The treatment of decubitus ulcers with dextranomer.

Abstract

Twenty-five patients with 35 bedsores were treated with dextranomer (Debrisan; Adcock Ingram) applied topically to the ulcers. Fourteen patients had ulcers which penetrated fascia, muscle and bone, 4 had superficial ulcers and 2 had discharging sinuses. Most of the severe ulcers healed rapidly and were cleansed and ready for surgery at an average of 14.6 days. The superficial ulcers were completely healed within 3 weeks. Treatment of the sinuses with dextranomer using a catheter/syringe technique resulted in wound closure within 28 days. In a representative sample of 12 patients in whom the surface area of the ulcers was measured by means of a planimeter, there was a median reduction in surface area of 44.8% by the 2nd week (P=0,0002) and 79% (P=0,001) at the end of the 4th week. The median percentage reduction in depth was 66.7% (P=0,008) at the end of the 4th week.

• Authors: R D Shrosbree, P Engel
• Journal: South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde (S Afr Med J) Vol. 59 Issue 25 Pg. 902-4 (Jun 13 1981) ISSN: 0256-9574 [Print] South Africa
• PMID: 6165087 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Dextrans
• dextranomer

Topics

• Administration, Topical
• Adolescent
• Adult
• Dextrans (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Pressure Ulcer (drug therapy)
• Time Factors
• Wound Healing (drug effects)