Maggots and their role in wound care.

Leg ulcers caused by chronic venous insufficiency affect a great many of the population, costing the NHS an estimated £200 million per year. The clinical use of sterile maggots under the brand name LarveE has increased steadily in the UK since they were introduced in the UK in late 1995. Maggot therapy breaks down necrotic tissue within a chronic wound, transforming it into an acute wound; subsequently beginning the healing process a lot quicker, thus reducing overall costs to the National Health Service. A literature review was conducted on studies that explored the use of maggot therapy in the management of chronic wounds. Four key themes were identified and analysed from this search, including infection control, promotion of healing, cost-effectiveness and the 'yuk' factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]