Serial Debridement Beneficial in Chronic Wounds

A new study demonstrates the value of serial debridement in treating lower extremity wounds and in facilitating the closure of chronic wounds.

Researchers at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (Chicago, IL, USA) examined data from clinical trials supplied by Advanced BioHealing (ABH; La Jolla, CA, USA). The data revealed that wounds serially debrided within the first four weeks of the treatment period had a median wound area reduction 54% higher than wounds that were not debrided. Additionally, venous leg ulcers receiving debridement at more than half of their study visits in the first month had a better chance of reaching 75% wound closure in four weeks, 90% wound closure in 12 weeks, and/or 100% closure in 12 weeks. Diabetic foot ulcers receiving debridement at every study visit over 12 weeks had a much greater chance of reaching ultimate wound closure than those debrided less often. The study was presented at the 2007 annual meeting of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) held in Philadelphia (PA, USA) during August 2007.

"We looked at data from more than 500 patients who were enrolled in two large clinical studies of wound healing,” said lead author professor of surgery David Armstrong, DPM, Ph.D. "The results clearly demonstrate the value of serial wound debridement to increase the rate of wound healing and the likelihood of total wound closure.”

"We believe that our products, such as Dermagraft, are most effective when used within a comprehensive regimen that optimizes the wound-healing process,” said David Eisenbud, M.D., vice president and Chief Medical Officer of ABH. "It benefits the company, physicians, and patients for us to mine our extensive databases for empirical evidence to guide clinical care.”


Related Links:
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
Advanced BioHealing