Search

Despite the advances in our understanding of normal and abnormal wound healing over the past decade, a specific biomarker which can be used clinically to identify 'hard-to-heal' wounds still remains elusive. Tissue and exudate samples extracted from the site of the wound are traditionally analysed using histological, microbiological and biochemical laboratory techniques. The aim of this paper is to review the advantages of these techniques, their limitations and the rapid developments in the fields of microbiology and proteomics, which are offering new insights into the differences between healing and non-healing wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the advances in our understanding of normal and abnormal wound healing over the past decade, a specific biomarker which can be used clinically to identify 'hard-to-heal' wounds still remains elusive. Tissue and exudate samples extracted from the site of the wound are traditionally analysed using histological, microbiological and biochemical laboratory techniques. The aim of this paper is to review the advantages of these techniques, their limitations and the rapid developments in the fields of microbiology and proteomics, which are offering new insights into the differences between healing and non-healing wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eczema is one of the most common dermatological diseases, with the number of cases in the UK rising. The use of emollients to maintain skin hydration and help restore barrier function, remains the principal treatment. Unfortunately, many health professionals, and patients themselves, fail to consider emollients an active treatment and may overlook the vital role they play in the maintenance of intact, healthy skin. Despite the overwhelming acceptance of the importance of emollient therapy, there remains a lack of good quality evidence on their effectiveness or whether one is better than another. Even when appropriate emollients are supplied, they are often used incorrectly or accompanied by conflicting/limited advice from health professionals. This article aims to explore normal skin barrier function, the disruption caused by eczema, and some of the contemporary issues surrounding emollient therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate possible effects of honey on angiogenesis, using in vitro analogues of angiogenesis and an endothelial proliferation assay. Method: Using an in vitro rat aortic ring assay we compared pseudotubule formation by medicinal honey (Activon), supermarket honey (Rowse) and a honey-based ointment (Mesitran), with that of artificial honey (70% w/w sugar glucose/fructose). Pseudotubules were analysed using TCS Cellworks AngioSys software. The Angiokit sytem was used to validate the results. Using the MTT [3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium. Bromide] assay, toxicity was also assessed on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) directly adherent to plastic. Results: All honey preparations stimulated pseudotubule formation, maximal at around 0.2% honey. Medicinal honeys were more active than Rowse. The effect was not attributable to the sugar content. Among the honeys tested, the Manuka-based Activon preparation reduced residual viable biomass compared with a sugar control at >0.32% v/v concentration. Rowse had a similar effect only at 2.5%, the highest dose tested. Conclusion: The influence of honey constituents on angiogenesis in a wound dressing context is likely to be positive, but would depend on the effective dilution of the honey and the penetration of the active constituents against an osmotic gradient. The extent to which this occurs has yet to be established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incontinence becomes more prevalent and severe in older people. This article will discuss the importance of effective skin care interventions to reducing the suffering caused by incontinence related skin breakdown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two cases of abdominal lymphatic disruption following surgery on the abdominal aorta are presented, one causing chylous ascites and the other resulting in a lymphocele. These complications have been only rarely described following abdominal vascular surgery. Both patients responded to percutaneous aspiration without recurrence. The radiologist has a major role in both the detection and management of this complication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight lymphatic fluid collections were drained percutaneously. There were no immediate or late complications. Seven patients had follow-up; 1 required surgical drainage of a residual or recurrent lymphocele, and another had reaccumulated fluid in a lymphocele which was detected on autopsy. The remaining lymphatic collections responded to percutaneous drainage. Percutaneous drainage is safe and can be an effective tool in the management of lymphatic collections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indwelling central venous catheters are widely used for the management of many disorders but have a high incidence of dislodgement, thrombosis, or occlusion. Contrast studies of these complications are hampered by difficulty injecting contrast through the catheters or peripheral veins. Use of digital subtraction angiography allows adequate visualization with small amounts of contrast and greatly facilitates the study of these catheters and the surrounding venous system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers continues to present a challenge across acute and long-term care settings, and costs the NHS up to £2.64 billion annually. As well as causing a reduced quality of life for sufferers, they can prove to be fatal. The complexity of the exact causes of skin breakdown and accurate risk assessment has proved problematic to fully understanding this common nursing problem, yet despite limited evidence clear guidelines on best practice exist, suggesting that prevention strategies should encompass interventions in three areas: risk assessment; relief of pressure, and education. Evidence exists that where these strategies are adopted at an organizational level, and strong leadership provided, the outcomes can be remarkable. This article outlines effective prevention and risk-reduction strategies, together with interventions that can promote healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]