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Common treatment for venous leg wounds includes topical wound dressings with compression. At each dressing change, wounds are debrided and washed; however, the effect of the washing procedure on the wound microbiome has not been studied. We hypothesized that wound washing may alter the wound microbiome. To characterize microbiome changes with respect to wound washing, swabs from 11 patients with chronic wounds were sampled before and after washing, and patient microbiomes were characterized using 16S rRNA sequencing and culturing. Microbiomes across patient samples prior to washing were typically polymicrobial but varied in the number and type of bacterial genera present. Proteus and Pseudomonas were the dominant genera in the study. We found that washing does not consistently change microbiome diversity but does cause consistent changes in microbiome composition. Specifically, washing caused a decrease in the relative abundance of the most highly represented genera in each patient cluster. The finding that venous leg ulcer wound washing, a standard of care therapy, can induce changes in the wound microbiome is novel and could be potentially informative for future guided therapy strategies.

Presence of bacteria in wounds can delay healing. Addition of a regularly instilled topical solution over the wound during negative‐pressure wound therapy (NPWT) may reduce bioburden levels compared with standard NPWT alone. We performed a prospective, randomised, multi‐centre, post‐market trial to compare effects of NPWT with instillation and dwell of polyhexamethylene biguanide solution vs NPWT without instillation therapy in wounds requiring operative debridement. Results showed a significantly greater mean decrease in total bacterial counts from time of initial surgical debridement to first dressing change in NPWT plus instillation (n = 69) subjects compared with standard NPWT (n = 63) subjects (−0.18 vs 0.6 log10 CFU/g, respectively). There was no significant difference between the groups in the primary endpoint of required inpatient operating room debridements after initial debridement. Time to readiness for wound closure/coverage, proportion of wounds closed, and incidence of wound complications were similar. NPWT subjects had 3.1 times the risk of re‐hospitalisation compared with NPWT plus instillation subjects. This study provides a basis for exploring research options to understand the impact of NPWT with instillation on wound healing.

Introducción: Las heridas con defectos de coberturas suponen un gran desafío a la hora de elegir un buen tratamiento que reduzca el riesgo de infección e incremente la capacidad de granulación del tejido. El objetivo de este estudio fue demostrar la utilidad del digluconato de clorhexidina para la granulación de tejidos. Materiales y Métodos: Se incluyeron 18 heridas de 16 pacientes que cumplían con los criterios de inclusión. Se realizaron curaciones ambulatorias con gasas embebidas en digluconato de clorhexidina al 20%, cada 48-72 h, hasta lograr la adecuada granulación de tejido y se tomaron fotografías de la evolución clínica de las heridas. Resultados: Se observó una adecuada granulación de las heridas en una media de 9.2 días (rango 4-25), independientemente del tamaño o de las comorbilidades. Ninguna herida presentó signos clínicos de infección durante el período de curación. Conclusiones: El uso de digluconato de clorhexidina es un adecuado método por tener en cuenta para tratar heridas, de forma ambulatoria, y así disminuir los costos hospitalarios del sistema de salud.

Introduction There is a paucity of randomized trials on nail surgery. Since there are no established guidelines, dermatologists may have false beliefs about best practices in performing nail surgery and post-procedural care. Methods We identified five common myths concerning nail surgery. A PubMed search was performed to refute or support these beliefs. Results We found compelling evidence that refutes these nail surgery myths. We found that epinephrine can be safely used for nail surgery, hydrogen peroxide and tap water is recommended for wound cleansing, prophylactic topical antibiotics should be avoided, calcium alginate, or amniotic membrane dressings are valuable dressing alternatives, and digital dressings have a low risk profile with precise technique. Discussion Randomized controlled trials for nail surgery are lacking. Data from similar fields may guide dermatologists in performing nail surgery. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(3): 230-234 doi:10.36849/JDD.2020.4861.

OBJECTIVE The aim: To conduct an analysis of the complex treatment of severe forms of rectal abscesses complicated by NF. PATIENTS AND METHODS Materials and methods: The results of treatment in 471 patients with deep forms of RA was performed. In 38(8%) the spread of the process and rotten-necrotic affection of the perineal fascia. Patients were treated at the surgical clinic of the medical faculty №2, VNPMMU, and Vinnytsya Clinical Emergency Hospital in the period from 2010-2018. RESULTS Results: Total lethality 8(1,7%). Mortality in GF was 8(19,5%). It is worth noting the reduction of the treatment duration against the background of the modern technologies usage in the period from 2016 to 12 days in relation to the total figure of 15 days. CONCLUSION Conclusions: Early surgical treatment, adequate necrectomy, fasciotomy and antibacterial therapy stop the necrotic process. The active aspiration reduces the timing of wound cleansing and further ensures the accelerated implementation of reconstructive surgical interventions.

Objective:To assess the benefits of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in complex therapy of patients with enterocuta‑ neous fistulas.Methods: From 2014 to 2019 in Saint Petersburg I.I. Dzhanelidze Research Institute of Emergency Medicine, 24 patients were managed with vacuum assisted techniques. For comparison, a comparable group of 23 observations (control) was formed retrospectively based on an analysis of medical records.Results: When using NPWT, the terms of wound cleansing and the formation of a laparostomy were reduced, and conditions were created for its early closure. With a small laparostomy, the use of NPWT contributed to self-epithelialization of the wound around the fistula.Conclusions: The use of NPWT more than halves the time of formation of a laparostomy, shortens the time for cleansing the wound and creates the conditions for its closure. Surgical tactics using NPWT can more than three times reduce the number of local complications in patients with unformed intestinal fistulas and less often change the combination of antibacterial drugs.

Appropriate and effective wound cleaning represents an important process that is necessary for preparing the wound for improved wound healing and for helping to dislodge biofilms. Wound cleaning is of paramount importance to wound bed preparation for helping to enhance wound healing. Surfactant applications in wound care may represent an important area in the cleaning continuum. However, understanding of the role and significance of surfactants in wound cleansing, biofilm prevention and control, and enhancing cellular viability and proliferation is currently lacking. Despite this, some recent evidence on poloxamer‐based surfactants where the surfactants are present in high concentration have been shown to have an important role to play in biofilm management; matrix metalloproteinase modulation; reducing inflammation; and enhancing cellular proliferation, behaviour, and viability. Consequently, this review aims to discuss the role, mode of action, and clinical significance of the use of medically accepted surfactants, with a focus on concentrated poloxamer‐based surfactants, to wound healing but, more specifically, the role they may play in biofilm management and effects on cellular repair.

SUMMARY The use of negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has become an established therapy for wound management. There have been many advancements in the technology of NPWT including NPWT with instillation and dwell (NPWTi-d). NPWTi-d promotes wound healing by wound cleansing, irrigation, and nonexcisional debridement. NPWTi-d has been shown in comparative clinical studies to decrease the time to definitive wound healing and length of hospitalization. NPWTi-d-using a reticulated open-cell foam dressing with "through" holes (ROCF-CC)-has been postulated to facilitate solubilization, detachment, and elimination of infectious materials, such as slough and thick exudate, before or after operative debridement, and in cases where surgical debridement is not an option. The authors provide an overview on the use of NPWTi-d by reviewing the components of the system, proposed mechanism of action, clinical outcomes, and current consensus guidelines for its utilization.

Objective: To determine reliability of primary closure of abscesses verses conventional incision and drainage. Study Design: Comparative study. Settings: DHQ Hospital, Independent University Hospital Faisalabad-Pakistan. Duration: Two years, 2017 to 2019. Conventional incision and drainage with wound packing is still being widely practiced despite innovative broad spectrum antibiotic coverage availability. The purposes of innovative primary closure procedure after incision and drainage and meticulous wound cleansing with normal saline covered by broad-spectrum prophylactic and post-operative antibiotics is to reduce morbidity and cost related to the more conventional procedure. Methodology: Comparison of two procedures that i.e. conventional incision and drainage with wound packing and incision and drainage with primary closure. The results were observed in patients including author's recent practice undergoing primary closure after incision and drainage from December 2017 to July 2019. The data was collected from DHQ Hospital, Independent University Hospital Faisalabad from year 2017 to 2019. Group 1 included patients with primary closure and group 2 included patients undergoing conventional incision and drainage. Results: Results of both procedures were compared in terms of morbidity i.e. recurrence, wound infection, cost and final scar results. In group 1 recurrence was observed in one patient (2%). It was observed that post-operative wound infection occurred in two patients (4%) that settled with antibiotic cover. Lesser number of average hospitals stay which the author found to be just 0- 1 day. The healing time was observed to be 7-10 days. In the group 2, there was no difference in recurrence of abscess which was found to be 2%-3%. The wound infection was observed 4% which was like group 1. On the other hand, the patients had to stay hospital for 4-5 days. Daily painful dressings requiring I.V analgesia and psychological trauma related to open wound. The average healing time was extended to of 4-6 weeks. Conclusion: Primary closure of abscesses versus conventional incision and drainage is more beneficent.

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the formation of slough on the wound bed. The impact slough has on wound healing will also be explored. There are several wound cleansing products which can be used for the safe removal of slough, and several different methods of debridement - including autolytic, conservative sharp, surgical, ultrasonic, hydrosurgical and mechanical - as well as several therapies which can be used, including osmotic, biological, enzymatic dressings and monofilament fibre pads. These various methods will be described.

The increasing population of diabetic patients leads to the increasing number of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) cases. To avoid the expansion of the infection, the wound cleansing is conducted through the irrigation and pressure methods. The aim of this research was to identify the effectiveness of wound cleansing using 0.9% normal saline technique with the pressure of 15 Psi in reducing the number of bacteria. This research used the randomized control trial method with a double blind design which had been approved by the ethnical committee of Muhammadiyah University of akarta with the ethnical committee number 261/PMK-UMJ/IV/2017. There were as many as 31 samples in each group collected through consecutive sampling technique with randomization. It had been found that there was a signi fi cant difference in the number of bacteria before and after wound cleansing. Thus, it could be concluded that from the statistical test and clinical test, wound cleansing with normal 0.9% saline technique with the pressure of 15 Psi could decrease the number of bacteria in diabetic foot ulcers. Wound cleansing with 0.9% normal saline irrigation technique pressurized at 15 Psi was recommended as a safe wound cleansing method for diabetic foot ulcers.

Manuskrip ini sudah dipublikasikan di Journal Advanced Science Letters, Volume 23, No 12 (December 2017)

The aim of this study was to compare different wound-rinsing solutions to determine differences in the efficiency and to evaluate three different in vitro models for wound cleansing. Different wound-rinsing solutions (physiological saline solution, ringer lactate solution for wound irrigation, water and a solution containing polihexanide and the surfactant undecylenamidopropyl-betain) were applied on standardised test models (one- and three-chamber model, flow-cell method and a biofilm model), each challenged with three different standardised wound test soils. In the one-chamber model saline showed a better effect on decontaminating proteins than the ringer lactate solution. In the flow-cell method, water performed better than physiological saline solution, whereas ringer lactate solution demonstrated the lowest cleansing effect. No obvious superiority between the two electrolyte-containing solutions was detectable in the biofilm model. Unfortunately, it was not possible to assess the protein decontamination qualities of the surfactant-containing solution because of the interference with the protein measurement. The flow-cell method was able to detect differences between different rinse solutions because it works at constant flow mechanics, imitating a wound-rinsing procedure. The three-chamber and the less-pronounced modified one-chamber method as well as the biofilm model had generated inhomogeneous results.

Betaine Polyhexanide (PHMB) is often being used as wound cleansing solution in current clinical practice for wound care. betaine polyhexanide (PHMB) can reduces the surface tension of the biofilm. The aim of this study was to compare the need of betaine plyhexanide (PHMB) solution and the cost effectiveness in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers using cleansing method of 13 psi and 7 psi. The observation was conducted for 6 days at Fatmawati Hospital in Jakarta on 18 samples of diabetic foot ulcers. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 15.0. The results of this study showed that the need of betaine polyhexanide (PHMB) solution and the cost effectiveness of irrigation pressure method of 13 psi is more effective and more efficient than the irrigation method of 7 psi ( p = 0.006 ; p = 0:02 ; CI 95 % ). The combination of irrigation pressure method of 13 psi using 0.9 % NaCl and betaine polyhexanide (PHMB) is recommended in clinical applications. Keywords: irrigation pressure, 13 psi, 7 psi, prontosan ® , diabetic foot ulcer

Objective: Research into surfactant solutions for the debridement of chronic wounds suggests that surfactants may support wound bed preparation (WBP) in chronic wounds, however their efficacy has not been evaluated in randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Our aim was to assess the clinical efficacy of a propylbetaine-polihexanide (PP) solution versus normal saline (NS) solution in WBP, assessing inflammatory signs and wound size reduction in patients with pressure ulcers (PUs) or vascular leg ulcers. Method: In a single-blinded randomised controlled trial (RCT) patients were randomly allocated to two groups and treated with either propylbetaine-polihexanide (PP) solution (Prontosan) or NS. Wounds were assessed using the Bates-Jensen wound assessment tool (BWAT). Assessments took place at inclusion (T0), day 7 (T1), day 14 (T2), day 21 (T3), and day 28 (T4). Outcomes were analysed using a two-tailed Student's t-test. Results: A total of 289 patients were included. Both groups had similar demographics, clinical status, and wound characteristics. Data analysis showed statistically significant differences between T0 and T4 for the following outcomes: BWAT total score, p=0.0248; BWAT score for inflammatory items, p=0.03; BWAT scores for wound size reduction (p=0.049) and granulation tissue improvement (p=0.043), all in favour of PP. The assessment of pain did not show any significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion: The study results showed significantly higher efficacy of the PP solution versus NS solution, in reducing inflammatory signs and accelerating the healing of vascular leg ulcers and PUs. This evidence supports the update of protocols for the care of chronic wounds. Declaration of interest: The authors have no conflict of interest regarding this research. This is an investigator initiated trial. B. Braun Milano SpA kindly provided the material under investigation for both treatment groups, and paid the Ethics Committees' application fees in all participating centres.

Background: Removal of nonvital tissue is an accepted method to eradicate biofilms and to stimulate wound healing. Debridement using a monofilament polyester fiber pad has clinically been shown to be effective as well as pain and trauma free. Methods: For in vitro determination of the cleansing capacity of this product compared to gauze swabs, a wound debridement model was used with glass plates coated with a bovine serum albumin solution, stained with hematoxylin. Both products were moistened and fixed to a weight connected to a regulated motor and were then pulled over the holding device with the coated glass plate under standardized conditions (power = 0.067 N/cm2, velocity = 1.6 cm/s). Results: At a low coating concentration (0.5%) both products were equally effective, but at a high concentration (1.5%) cleansing did not occur after 5 wipes. When wiping the plates 15 times, the debridement pad cleansed significantly (p < 0.001) better than gauze. When consecutively wiping 4 coated plates with a single debridement pad or swab, the pad exhibited and maintained a significantly higher cleansing capacity while gauze quickly lost its effect. Conclusion: Our in vitro test results indicated a higher cleansing capacity of the debridement pad compared to gauze swabs.

Necrotizing soft tissue infection is a rapidly spreading bacterial infection that can quickly destroy a person’s muscles, skin, and underlying tissue. In this retrospect chart review, we will look at how the utilization of negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and dwell (NPWTi-d) and novel reticulated open cell foam (ROCF-CC) assisted with the healing of a patient’s wound along with decreasing the time spent in the operating room. NPWTi-d provided the benefits of wound healing such as solubilizing the infectious material and removing the devitalized tissue. Using this form of treatment, we were able to improve the patient’s quality of life and decrease her time in the hospital.

We describe our early experience with a novel foam dressing together with negative pressure wound therapy and instillation (NPWTi-d) for cleansing and removal of infectious materials. This is a prospective review of the clinical outcomes of three patients using V.A.C. VERAFLO™ Therapy with the V.A.C. VERAFLO CLEANSE CHOICE™ Dressing. This novel foam dressing has been designed in a unique way to help facilitate the removal of infectious material, thick fibrinous exudate, slough, and other wound bioburden. To our best knowledge, this is the first reported case series using this dressing in the Middle East. Our preliminary results suggest that adjunctive use of NPWTi-d using V.A.C. VERAFLO CLEANSE CHOICE™ Dressing can clean large or complex wounds when complete surgical debridement is not possible or when areas of non-viable tissue remain present on the wound bed after surgical debridement.

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and venous leg ulcers (VLUs) have major financial implications for patients and healthcare professionals. VLUs, in particular, require significant care, can be slow to heal, and have a high rate of recurrence. These factors combine to make VLUs a major burden on the healthcare system. Recent estimates show that the cost of treatment of VLUs per patient in the United States is $10,000 to $12,000 per year, with the average lifetime cost of care greater than $40,000. Infected VLUs often require surgical debridement for the removal of bacterial burden and biofilm. The use of negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and dwell (NPWTi-d) has shown to decrease OR visits, length of hospitalization, and therapy days in lower extremity and trunk wounds. In 2017, a novel reticulated open cell foam dressing with through holes (ROCF-CC) was introduced as a dressing option with NPWTi-d. ROCF-CC assists in removing thick wound exudate and infectious materials. This dressing option is especially helpful for wound cleansing when debridement is not possible or appropriate in patients.

Microbiology diagnostics are frequently performed in patients with chronic wounds. However, there is currently a lack of uniformity with respect to indications as well as the practical implementation of such workup. The fact that diagnostic results may be significantly affected by the sampling technique used as well as the preceding (wound) preparation underscores the need for uniform standards, which have been missing so far. In Germany, bacteriologic wound swabs are routinely performed, particularly with the intent to screen for multiresistant pathogens. For this indication, prior wound cleansing should be avoided, and sampling using the Essen Rotary technique provides a quick and easy-to-use option. If there is clinical suspicion of an infection, wound cleansing with sterile saline solution (0.9 %) and/or sterile cotton gauze should be carried out prior to obtaining bacteriologic swabs. While routine diagnostic biopsies are generally not required in chronic wound patients, they may be useful in case of clinically suspected wound infections, particularly in patients with deep ulcerations, diabetic foot syndrome, severe soft tissue infection, or fistula tissue. Moreover, biopsies are indispensable in the microbiology workup of specific pathogens such as mycobacteria, Leishmania, actinomycetes, Nocardia ssp. or molds.

Background and Aim: Surgical site infection (SSI) remains an important concern in Japan. The Japanese Soci‐ ety for Infection and Prevention Control disclosed that the incidence of SSIs has been lowered only by a fraction over the past 10 years. The importance of taking steps to reduce the occurrence of SSIs is recognized by many hospitals, but to date, no truly effective countermeasures have been reported. We executed a plan to better un‐ derstand the spec fic surveillance needs at St. Marianna University School of Medicine Hospital and then de‐ velop and institute procedures that would reduce the incidence of SSIs. Methods and Results: In 2005, we began development of an enhanced SSI surveillance system. With our basic CDC-based surveillance system in place, we assembled a team of doctors and nurses to oversee surveillance. We practiced strict record keeping and data analysis, gleaned information from staff, and enlisted the coopera‐ tion of other departments. New procedures were established accordingly and implemented in three phases. Be‐ tween 2005 and 2013, we witnessed informative fluctuat ons in the incidence of SSIs. Key components of our new system were standardized postoperative wound cleansing, use of buried absorbable sutures to close surgical wounds, consistent provision of 6 antibacterial agents, each one active against a common organ spec fic patho‐ gen, and establishment of a prophylactic protocol. New methods of information sharing were also instituted. We lowered the incidence of SSIs from 8% in 2006 to approximately 6.9% in 2012. We continue to monitor the number of SSIs occurring and are encouraged by a steady decline. Conclusion: Establishment of the SSI team at our hospital has proven to be a useful multidisciplinary approach to nosocomial infection awareness and control. Gradual introduction of the system to the various departments and step-by-step implementation have decreased the occurrence of SSIs and the nosocomial spread of infectious agents.

Wound cleansing should create an optimal healing environment by removing excess debris, exudates, foreign and necrotic material which are commonly present in the wounds that heal by secondary intention. At present, there is no research evidence for whether pressurised irrigation has better wound healing outcomes compared with conventional swabbing practice in cleansing wound.This study investigated the differences between pressurised irrigation and swabbing method in cleansing wounds that healed by secondary intention in relation to wound healing outcomes and cost-effectiveness.Multicentre, prospective, randomised controlled trial.The study took place in four General Outpatient Clinics in Hong Kong.Two hundred and fifty six patients with wounds healing by secondary intention were randomly assigned by having a staff independent of the study opening a serially numbered, opaque and sealed envelope to either pressurised irrigation (n=122) or swabbing (n=134). Staff undertaking study-related assessments was blinded to treatment assignment. Patients' wounds were followed up for 6 weeks or earlier if wounds had healed to determine wound healing, infection, symptoms, satisfaction, and cost effectiveness. The primary outcome was time-to-wound healing. Patients were analysed according to their treatment allocation. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01885273.Intention-to-treat analysis showed that pressurised irrigation group was associated with a shorter median time-to-wound healing than swabbing group [9.0 days (95% CI: 7.4-13.8) vs. 12.0 (95% CI: 10.2-13.8); p=0.007]. Pressurised irrigation group has significantly more patients experiencing lower grade of pain during wound cleansing (93.4% vs. 84.2%; p=0.02), and significantly higher median satisfaction with either comfort or cleansing method (MD 1 [95% CI: 5-6]; p=0.002; MD 1 [95% CI: 5-6]; p0.001) than did swabbing group. Wound infection was reported in 4 (3.3%) patients in pressurised irrigation group and in 7 (5.2%) patients in swabbing group (p=0.44). Cost-effectiveness analysis indicated that pressurised irrigation in comparison with swabbing saved per patient HK$ 110 (95% CI: -33 to 308) and was a cost-effective cleansing method at no extra direct medical cost with a probability of 90%.This is the first randomised controlled trial to compare the pressurised irrigation and swabbing. Pressurised irrigation is more cost-effective than swabbing in shortening time that wound heals by secondary intention with better patient tolerance. Use of pressurised irrigation for wound cleansing is supported by this trial.

Several published reviews and recommendations exist for the use of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) with instillation and a dwell time (NPWTi-d) in acute and chronic wounds. Specific dressings for use with NPWTi-d have also been developed, including a reticulated open cell foam dressing with through holes (ROCF-CC) that assists in removing thick wound exudate and infectious materials. ROCF-CC is especially helpful for wound cleansing when debridement is not possible or appropriate in patients. We report our initial experiences in using NPWTi-d with ROCF-CC in patients with pressure ulcers. An algorithmic approach was used to determine appropriate treatment to reach the goals of therapy (i.e., wound bed preparation, granulation tissue formation, and removal of infectious materials). Previous therapies included honey and gauze soaked in Dakin’s solution. All patients received antibiotics and debridement when possible. Five patients (3 females and 2 males) received NPWTi-d with ROCF-CC (instillation of saline or a hypochlorous solution with a dwell time of 10 minutes, followed by 2-3 hours of -125 mmHg NPWT). Patient comorbidities included obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and peripheral artery disease. Mean age of patients was 65.2 years (range: 50-82 years). After an average of 6 days of therapy (range 2-9 days), all wounds treated with NPWTi-d with ROCFCC showed rapid granulation tissue formation. We also noted improved removal of devitalized tissue and subsequent granulation tissue formation in patients receiving hypochlorous solution compared to patients receiving saline during NPWTi-d with ROCF-CC. All patients were eventually transferred to a skilled nursing facility. In our clinical practice, NPWTi-d with ROCF-CC provided effective and rapid removal of the thick exudate and infectious materials and promoted excellent development of underlying granulation tissue.

This study was necessitated by the international recognition of wound-related pain (WRP) as a must-address issue and patient-centred concerns. The aim of this study was to assess patients' WRP experiences at rest and in relation to dressing change. This descriptive study utilised a WRP questionnaire which incorporated a visual analogue scale of 0-10 for data collection. A total of 109 patients participated in this study; 95·4% of the participants experienced wound pain at rest and during performance of activities of daily living, which were moderate (47·1%) and severe (30·8%) in intensity. Also, 91·7% of the participants experienced wound dressing change-related pain, mostly as moderate (47·0%) and severe (28·0%) pain. The major factors that worsened WRP experiences were touch/handling, change in position/movement, wound cleansing, removal of dressings and usage of honey as a dressing agent, while the use of analgesic and brief rest between dressing change were considered the major strategies that can relieve WRP. WRP experiences have been reported by patients at rest, during performance of activities of daily living and at wound dressing change. A need to incorporate WRP assessment has been observed, which is vital in improving wound care outcome.

a b s t r a c t Introduction: Hydrotherapy is widely used in burns management however there are risks associated with its use, in particular cross-infection. Data regarding indications and tech- niques in common use is deficient. This study aimed to investigate hydrotherapy practices in the UK and Ireland. Methods: A survey of the hydrotherapy practice of major burn care providers was performed by e mail and where necessary, follow up telephone contact. Results: The survey included 28 burn care providers. 27 reported using hydrotherapy. Only 11 (41%) had defined indication criteria with 4 (15%) implementing a specific protocol. Variations in hydrotherapy practice were seen. Conclusion: Hydrotherapy is used nationwide, however considerable variation in practice exists. One area worthy of further consideration is the need for appropriate standards of infection control.

The treatment of patients with chronic wounds is becoming increasingly complex. It was therefore the aim of the members of the working group for wound healing (AGW) of the German Society of Dermatology (DDG) to report on the currently relevant aspects of non-interventional, topical wound treatment for daily practice. -Beside necessary procedures, such as wound cleansing and debridement, we describe commonly used wound dressings, their indications and practical use. Modern antiseptics, which are currently used in wound therapy, usually contain polyhexanide or octenidine. Physical methods, such as negative-pressure treatment, are also interesting options. It is always important to objectify and adequately treat pain symptoms which often affect these patients. Modern moist wound therapy may promote healing, reduce complications, and improve the quality of life in patients with chronic wounds. Together with the improvement of the underlying causes, modern wound therapy is an important aspect in the overall treatment regime for patients with chronic wounds.

Pet cat bites are common—the most typical patient being a child, and the most typical locality hands and face. The normal flora of a pet cat’s mouth houses very potent pathogens. Therapeutic measures include wound cleansing, prophylaxis against tetanus and possibly rabies. Antibiotic prophylaxis should be administered in the cases of all but the mildest superficial wounds especially if the wound is in the hand or face. We present a review on the medical care of cat bite wounds and a typical case of a patient who developed rapid symptoms and signs of infection after a pet cat bite and nearly required hospitalization. The clinical picture was consistent with a Pasteurella infection.

Aim. To improve the treatment of patients with burns, provide the protection and creation of an optimal «wet» environment for wound healing. Methods. Results of «Biokol», «Biokol-gel» and «Gelepran» regenerative complexes use to treat burn wounds of II-IIIA degree were examined. 75 patients with burns of II-IIIA degree involving 4 to 80% of body surface were examined. Patients were divided into 2 groups. The first group (main group) consisted of 40 patients who were treated using «Biokol» wound dressings and «Biokol-gel». The second group (control group) consisted of 35 patients in whom «Gelepran» hydrogel wound dressing was used. Treatment results were evaluated on the basis of clinical, cytological and microbiological examinations of wound content. Results. 4-5 days after treatment initiation a significant decrease of pathogenic microorganisms detection rate was registered in both groups accompanied by edge epithelization. The rate of Ps. aeruginosa, Рroteus, Kl. pneumonea detection varied from 2.5 to 5% in patients of the first group and from 2.5 to 8.5% - in patients of the second group. No cases of St. viridians detection were registered in patients of the first group. Cytologic picture was described as inflammatory in 76% of patients of the first group and in 59% of patients of the second group, as inflammatory-regenerative in 24 and 32% of cases accordingly. On the sixth day of treatment the detection rate for the inflammatory type of cytogram has reduced, resulting in reduction of neutrophils count to 62% in the first group and to 72% in the second group. An increase of fibroblasts number reaching 30% in the first group and 23% in the second group was also observed, corresponding to the clinical course. Conclusion. Combined use of wound dressing and gel (regenerative complex) showed the best result. «Biokol-gel» created a moist environment activating wound cleansing of residual fibrin and necrotizing tissues and reducing the epithelilization time compared to the «Gelepran» wound dressing. «Biokol» also acted as a mechanical protection and provided the maintenance of favorable conditions in the wound.

Infections of contaminated or colonised acute or chronic wounds remain a grave risk for patients even today. Despite modern surgical debridement concepts and antibiotics, a great need exists for new therapies in wound management. Since the late 1990s, advantageous effects of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) have been combined with local antiseptic wound cleansing in the development of NPWT with instillation (NPWTi). This article summarises the current scientific knowledge on this topic. MEDLINE literature searches were performed on the subject of negative pressure wound and instillation therapy covering publications from the years 1990 to 2013 (36 peer-reviewed citations) and regarding randomised controlled trials (RCTs) covering wound care with bone involvement (27 publications) or soft-tissue wounds without bone participation (11 publications) from 2005 to 2012. The use of NPWTi in the therapy of infected wounds appears to be not yet widespread, and literature is poor and inhomogeneous. However, some reports indicate an outstanding benefit of NPWTi for patients, using antiseptics such as polyhexanide (concentration 0·005–0·04%) and acetic acid (concentration 0·25–1%) in acute and chronic infected wounds and povidone-iodine (10% solution) as prophylaxis in contaminated wounds with potential viral infection. Soaking times are recommended to be 20 minutes each, using cycle frequencies of four to eight cycles per day. Additionally, the prophylactic use of NPWTi with these substances can be recommended in contaminated wounds that cannot be closed primarily with surgical means. Although first recommendations may be given currently, there is a great need for RCTs and multicentre studies to define evidence-based guidelines for an easier approach to reach the decision on how to use NPWTi.

A new method (V.A.C.ULTA Therapy System, KCI USA, Inc., San Antonio, TX) combines the benefits of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT; V.A.C. Therapy, KCI USA, Inc.) with regulated, periodic instillation of user-selected topical wound solutions (V.A.C. VeraFlo Therapy, KCI USA, Inc.). In simulated wound model studies comparing solution distribution using NPWT with and without a soak phase, the instillation soak phase allowed for uniform solution distribution across the wound bed, whereas continuous (no soak) irrigation resulted in uneven coverage. Additional in vitro work illustrated that bacterial particle aerosolisation during wound cleansing was significantly decreased using NPWT with instillation (NPWTi) versus commercially available low-pressure wound cleansers (P < 0·05). In porcine studies, NPWT with saline instillation induced 43% more granulation tissue versus NPWT (P < 0·05) and was as effective at wound cleansing as pulsed lavage. These studies have demonstrated that NPWTi may be an effective wound management therapy that provides both wound cleansing and NPWT benefits.

The wet-to-dry phase as a basic accompanying measure in dressing changes on secondary healing wounds was first described and instructed 1989 by G. Kammerlander at the university hospital of Zurich. This development traces back to collective years of practical experiences at the Clinic of dermatology of the university hospital Zurich (Prof. U.W. Schnyder/G. Kammerlander). The positive empirical experiences over more than one and a half decade now require underlying this method with scientific facts. Using a literature survey, the importance and significance of this practical experience will be confirmed and supported. This article will show this established and widely-used method in an updated version.

Wound healing is a complex series of events that are interlinked and dependent on one another. Acute wounds usually follow a well-defined process. In the past this model of healing has been applied also to chronic wounds, but it is well known that chronic wound healing is different from acute wound healing. Wound bed preparation as a concept allows the clinician to focus systematically on all of the critical components of a non-healing wound to identify the cause of the problem, and implement a care programme in order to achieve wound healing. To assist with implementing the concept of wound bed preparation, the TIME acronym was developed in 2002 by a group of wound care experts. It is important to understand wound bed preparation and TIME within the context of total patient care. Debridement is an integrated part of wound management, achieving certain goals and, thus, creating a healthy wound bed, margins and peri-wound skin with the objective to promote and accelerate healing. Debridement is defined as the removal of foreign material and necrotic tissue from a wound and it can also help to stimulate wound healing. However, not all methods of debridement are the same. Each method has advantages and disadvantages that must be clearly understood. Wound cleansing loosens and washes away cellular debris such as bacteria, exudate, purulent material and residual topical agents from previous dressings. Failure to use the correct method for a given wound may lead to further delays in wound healing, increase patient suffering, and unnecessarily increase the cost of care. Aim of this review is to give an overview of current standards and definitions concerning wound bed preparation and debridement.

Wound cleansing is considered to be an integral part of wound care, nevertheless wound cleansing is very often said to be a ritualistic procedure that is undertaken with very little thought or rational ( Magson-Roberts 2006 ). Is wound cleansing a procedure that needs to be performed and what is the difference between wound cleansing and debridment. The aim of this article is to consider the need for wound cleansing; the solutions used and the preferred method of cleansing wounds.

Current guidelines suggest early surgical treatment of open fractures. This rule in open hand fractures is not well supported and may be unpractical. Furthermore, desirable debridement and washout can be obtained in the emergency department (ED). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the level of contamination, quality of washout in the emergency room, and the development of infection. Sixty-one patients with open fractures of the hand were retrospectively reviewed for demographic and fracture characteristics, and other complications. The infection rate was 14.8%. Contamination was present in 43 patients (70.5%). One thousand milliliters or more were used to obtain a grossly clean wound in 43 patients (70.5%). No significant relationship was found between fracture type, finger involved, hand dominance, comorbidities, and development of infection. The amount of fluid used for washout was significantly related to infection (P = 0.047), whereas wound contamination was not (P = 0.259). Type of oral antibiotic was significantly related to infection (P = 0.039). The level of contamination was not a significant factor in predicting infection, whereas the amount of fluid used for washout and the oral antibiotic type were significant factors in preventing infection. Since administration of intravenous antibiotics and thorough wound cleansing can be performed on open hand fractures in the ED under adequate anesthesia, most open fractures in the hand do not need to be treated early in the operating theater.

Background: Although various solutions have been recommended for cleansing wounds, normal saline is favoured as it is an isotonic solution and does not interfere with the normal healing process. Tap water is commonly used in the community for cleansing wounds because it is easily accessible, efficient and cost effective; however, there is an unresolved debate about its use. Objectives: The objective of this review was to assess the effects of water compared with other solutions for wound cleansing. Search strategy: For this update we searched the Cochrane Wounds Group Specialised Register (Searched 22 February 2010); The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) ( The Cochrane Library, 2010 Issue 1); Ovid MEDLINE – 2007 to February Week 2 2010; Ovid MEDLINE – In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations (Searched19 February 2010); Ovid EMBASE – 2007 to 2010 Week 06; EBSCO CINAHL – 2007 to 22 February 2010. Selection criteria: Randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials that compared the use of water with other solutions for wound cleansing were eligible for inclusion. Additional criteria were outcomes that included objective or subjective measures of wound infection or healing. Data collection and analysis: Two review authors independently carried out trial selection, data extraction and quality assessment. We settled differences in opinion by discussion. We pooled some data using a random-effects model.

The concept of wound bed preparation can be implemented using the TIME paradigm. Chronic wounds are mostly characterised by prolonged inflammation and increased bioburden. Removal of wound biofilm and devitalised tissue, which is an ideal environment for bacterial growth, can help address the I in TIME. Wound cleansing aims to remove contaminants, debris, dressing remnants and superficial slough from the wound. Some wound cleansers contain surfactants, which reduce the surface tension of a liquid, enabling it to spread further over a surface. This article describes how these solutions can be used to debride the wound surface without damaging healthy cells.

Wound cleansing has been practised for centuries and despite our advances in the medical field there is still much confusion about which solution to use for cleansing wounds in practice. From boiled water to cytotoxic chemicals the annihilation of bacteria has become our biggest obsession but it should not be at the expense of the healing process. As multi-resistant organisms begin to reduce our options for antibiotic use it appears that dilution remains the solution to pollution.

Atiyeh BS, Dibo SA, Hayek SN. Wound cleansing, topical antiseptics and wound healing. Quality of care is a critical requirement for wound healing and ‘good’ care of wounds has been synonymous with topical prevention and management of microbial contamination. Topical antiseptics are antimicrobial agents that kill, inhibit or reduce the number of microorganisms and are thought to be essential for wounds infection control. However, they have long and commonly been used on wounds to prevent or treat infection, the merits of antiseptic fluid irrigation have received little scientific study. Unlike antibiotics that act selectively on a specific target, antiseptics have multiple targets and a broader spectrum of activity, which include bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa and even prions. Although certain skin and wound cleansers are designed as topical solutions with varying degrees of antimicrobial activity, concerns have been raised. Wound cleansers may affect normal human cells and may be antimitotic adversely affecting normal tissue repair. Repeated and excessive treatment of wounds with antiseptics without proper indications may have negative outcomes or promote a microenvironment similar to those found in chronic wounds. However, when applied at the proper times and concentrations, some classes of antiseptics may provide a tool for the clinician to drive the wound bed in desired directions. The present review summarises the various antiseptics in use and their negative impact on the wound healing mechanisms. It is clear that the role of antiseptics on wounds and their role in wound care management need to be reconsidered.

Dog bite injury is a common reason for presentation to emergency departments. However the nature of this problem in Australia has not been closely studied and a number of unresolved questions remain regarding management options. This prospective study of 101 cases was undertaken to collect demographic information about victims and assailants, to describe the spectrum of injury seen and to report outcome following a standard management protocol. In common with other studies, young males were bitten most frequently, usually by German Shepherds, Heelers and Terriers. Nearly half (48%) of the facial injuries occurred in children under 10 years old. The infection rate in this study, using wound cleansing and prophylactic penicillin in all cases, was only 4%. Wound swabs on presentation were unhelpful. Controversies still exist regarding wound closure and the use of prophylactic antibiotics.

Background: Hydrogen peroxide solutions of lowconcentrations are important antiseptics anddeodorants used in hospitals and as home-remedies. The preparations have the disadvan-tage of being unstable when exposed tosunlight and when stored for a long time. Theydecompose slowly, releasing oxygen and waterthus decreasing the available hydrogen peroxidefor antimicrobial action.Objective: To assess the quality of hydrogenperoxide solution-based antiseptics available inDar es Salaam.Methodology: One hundred and sixty-five sam-ples were collected at random from pharmaciesand medical stores, and analysed. One hundredand forty samples were hydrogen peroxide solu-tions intended for wound cleansing and 25 sam-ples were eardrops. Among these samples, 116were from manufacturer A, 24 from manufacturerB and 25 samples of eardrops were from manu-facturer C.Results: Eighteen (26%) of the samples frommedical stores failed to meet specifications. Ofthe 70 samples from pharmacies, 20 (29%) failedto meet the BP 2005 specifications. All the 25samples of eardrops failed to comply with speci-fications. The average hydrogen peroxide con-tents (±SD) of the samples from medical storesand pharmacies were 6.6±0.6%,6.8±0.4% w⁄vrespectively. The difference was statistically sig-nificant (P

Significance: Traumatic injuries are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the initial assessment and management of traumatic and burn wounds in children. Special attention is given to wound cleansing, debridement techniques, and considerations for pain management and psychosocial support for children and families. Recent Advances: Basic and translational research over the last 5–7 years has advanced our knowledge related to the optimal care of acute pediatric traumatic and burn wounds. Data concerning methods, volume, solution and timing for irrigation of acute traumatic wounds, timing and methods of wound debridement, including hydrosurgery and plasma knife coblation, and wound dressings are presented. Additionally, data concerning the long-term psychosocial outcomes following acute injury are presented. Critical Issues: The care of pediatric trauma and burn-related wounds requires prompt assessment, pain control, cleansing, deb...

Aim: This evaluation aimed to determine whether the use of a haemoglobin spray solution expedited sloughy wound healing. Method: A descriptive evaluation was undertaken within a community setting exploring 25 patients presenting with sloughy healing and non-healing wounds, and the effects of 8 topically administered haemoglobin treatments over a 4-week period. Standard wound cleansing and dressing management were continued, with no changes to pre-evaluation regimens, and care being provided by the patients themselves or by a carer. Data were collected weekly with regard to primary outcomes of slough reduction, wound surface area reduction, patient ease of use (self-care), and overall product experience. Results: At 4 weeks, all wounds demonstrated positive measured endpoints of slough elimination and continued wound-size reduction. Patients and carers found the product easy to use (self-caring) with an overall positive wound care experience. Conclusion: The administration of a haemoglobin spray solution on patients presenting with sloughy wounds resulted in positive healing outcomes of slough elimination and wound reduction alongside positive self-care and product satisfaction. Continued evaluation is recommended to build upon the evidence of this form of treatment.

Chronic wound management remains challenging in clinical practice, especially in the presence of bacterial bioburden and slough. To resolve these clinical challenges, it is essential clinicians implement the TIME framework (tissue, inflammation/infection, moisture, edge of wound) as a model of effective wound bed preparation. As a result of advances in technology and wound care therapies, on the market today are products that can help reduce the wound bed clinical challenges recommended by the TIME framework. This article looks at a wound cleansing solution that reduces the wound bed bioburden by breaking down biofilms and debriding slough.

Objective The purpose of this study was to determine (1) the rate of contamination for a normal saline solution prepared with distilled water and salt when stored at room temperature and (2) when stored under refrigerated conditions; and (3) to compare the rate of contamination for solutions prepared and stored under controlled conditions with those prepared and stored in patients' homes. Design This quasi-experimental study examined the bacterial content of saline made with distilled water and stored at room temperature and that of saline stored in a refrigerator. Setting A large urban home health agency was the setting for the study. Methods Eight teaspoons of table salt were added to 1-gallon jugs of distilled water purchased from a grocery store to produce a normal saline solution. Two gallons of the prepared solution were stored at room temperature (80 degrees F) and 2 were stored in a refrigerator (48 degrees F). Cultures were taken from each of the 4 bottles of prepared solution immediately following preparation and at weekly intervals until bacterial growth occurred, or 4 weeks after preparation. Results All tested solutions were negative for bacterial growth at baseline. Cultures of the solution stored at room temperature were positive for bacterial growth 2 weeks after preparation, whereas those stored under refrigerated conditions remained free of bacterial contamination 4 weeks after preparation. Two "patient-prepared" solutions were tested at 3 weeks, and both were negative for bacteria at that time. Three patient-prepared solutions were tested at 4 weeks, of which 2 showed no bacterial growth in 48 hours, whereas 1 revealed 600 cfu/mL of Pseudomonas species. Conclusions The results of this small study suggest that saline solutions produced by adding table salt to distilled water will remain bacteria-free for 1 month if refrigerated. Additional studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Important improvements have been made in wound care over the last decade. However, few data are available on the influence that these have outside their intended use. This study aimed to clarify the effects of the use of wound cleansers on bacterial contamination of the immediate surroundings. Little evidence was found from either laboratory or clinical settings that wound-derived micro-organisms become airborne during wound cleansing. Bacterial dispersion around wounds may be attributed to general activity rather than wound cleansing. If simple precautions are taken, risks for personnel and patients in hospitals and consultation rooms during wound cleansing can be minimized.