Enzymatic debridement for necrotic wounds.

Abstract

In a randomised, double-blind, controlled trial, a comparison was made of the relative efficacy of using streptokinase/streptodornase (Varidase) in a hydrogel (KY Jelly) or the hydrogel alone in the debridement of Grade IV pressure sores. Seventeen subjects aged 57-94 years (mean age 81) took part; 21 sores were studied, 11 of which were randomised to the enzyme treatment regime. Both treatments led to eschar removal; fewer days were needed in the hydrogel-only group (mean 8.1 days, sd 1.8) compared to the enzyme/hydrogel group (mean 11.8 days, sd 2.9), but this was not statistically significant. The results suggest that the use of hydrogel alone may be a cost-effective alternative to the use of streptokinase/streptodornase and hydrogel in the treatment of these wounds.

• Authors: S J Martin, O J Corrado, E A Kay
• Journal: Journal of wound care (J Wound Care) Vol. 5 Issue 7 Pg. 310-1 (Jul 1996) ISSN: 0969-0700 [Print] England
• PMID: 8954418 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)

Chemical References

• Hydrogel, Polyethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate
• Polyethylene Glycols
• Streptodornase and Streptokinase

Topics

• Cost-Benefit Analysis
• Debridement (methods)
• Double-Blind Method
• Humans
• Hydrogel, Polyethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate
• Necrosis
• Polyethylene Glycols (therapeutic use)
• Pressure Ulcer (pathology, therapy)
• Streptodornase and Streptokinase (therapeutic use)