Maggot debridement therapy for individuals with diabetic foot ulceration: a service evaluation.

Objective: To examine the use of maggot debridement therapy (MDT) for individuals with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) after a change in prescribing policy. Method: A selfcompletion survey/structured questionnaire to assess healthcare professionals' existing knowledge of MDT was given to those specialist services providing wound care treatments for DFUs. Results: The results showed that those responding had a basic understanding of MDT and its use. However, further education is required for the type of wounds that maggots can be applied to, and what enzymes are produced. Enablers and barriers to MDT use also included policy and procedures, time constraints and the 'yuck factor'. Conclusion: While there is good clinical evidence to support the use of MDT, there is a lack of evidence examining the factors that influence healthcare professionals' decisions to recommend this treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]