Current Issue

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy as an Adjunctive Treatment for Diabetic Foot Wounds: A Comprehensive Review With Case Studies

admin — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 12:13:00 -0500

Abstract: Complications associated with diabetes are often expensive to treat, and commonly include foot ulceration. While most diabetic foot ulcers heal with standard treatment, when standard treatment measures fail, adjunctive therapies must be considered. We review the theory and evidence for the use of systemic Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) as an adjunctive treatment for chronic lower extremity diabetic ulceration. Two clinical cases of patients treated with HBOT for refractory diabetic foot ulceration at Georgetown University Hospital are presented.

Glucan Improves Impaired Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats

admin — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:47:15 -0500

Abstract: Purpose. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a contributing factor to impaired wound healing in humans. A large body of evidence indicates that the diabetic state is associated with delayed or reduced wound repair capacity. The present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of glucan on improving abdominal wall wound healing in rats with DM. Methods. Ninety-six female, Sprague-Dawley rats that weighed between 250 g and 300 g were used. A laparotomy was performed on all of the rats on the 14th day. Twenty-four healthy rats (group 1) served as the control.

Microbial Cellulose Wound Dressing in the Treatment of Skin Tears in the Frail Elderly

admin — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 16:07:56 -0500

Abstract: In a randomized trial of predominantly category II and III skin tears in a population of frail elderly nursing home residents, standard wound care (24 residents) with Xeroform™ and a secondary dressing (Tegaderm™) was compared with a single application of a microbial cellulose membrane Dermafill (27 residents). Outcomes included the time to wound closure, pain reduction, and ease of use. While wound area was slightly larger in the microbial cellulose treated group, the healing time was equivalent to controls.

Health-related Quality of Life and Depression in Older Patients With Pressure Ulcers

admin — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:43:46 -0500

Abstract: Objectives. To evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and depression in older patients with pressure ulcers who were living at home in the community. Methods. A cross-sectional analytical study conducted in southern Minas Gerais, Brazil. Forty-two outpatients 60 years and older, showing no cognitive deficit who were living in the community, participated in the study. They were divided into two groups: the study group (21 patients with pressure ulcers), and control group (21 patients without pressure ulcers).

A New Year

admin — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:48:31 -0500

Dear Readers,

A new year, a new decade—where has the time gone? It seems like just yesterday we were fretting over a potential meltdown at 12:01 am on January 1, 2000.

Industry News January 2010

admin — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:51:51 -0500

Smith & Nephew Completes asset Acquisition from Nucryst Pharmaceuticals

Product News January 2010

admin — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 08:54:41 -0500

Derma Sciences’ Bioguard Barrier Gauze Demonstrates Efficacy Against Influenza Virus

Sarcoid Ulcer of the Leg: A Challenging Chronic Wound

admin — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 09:50:49 -0500

Abstract: Sarcoidosis, a systemic inflammatory disease of unknown cause(s), is a diagnosis of exclusion. While skin lesions are common, chronically nonhealing wounds caused by this idiopathic disease are rare and often misdiagnosed. Definitive diagnostic tests do not exist. The finding of noncaseating granulomas on biopsy of wounds is useful. Mistreatment or any delay in proper treatment of ulcerative sarcoidosis can be painful to patients. Corticosteroid therapy generally is effective.

Sechrist Industries: Ed Pulwer, President and CEO and Bill Preuit, Senior Vice President of International Sales and Marketing

admin — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:49:27 -0500

Utilizing his passion for the research and development of new life-saving medical technologies, mechanical engineer Ron Sechrist founded Sechrist Industries in 1973. From the beginning, Sechrist has defined its brand with a core set of values — ie, integrity, relationships, service, respect, and dedication. Today, Sechrist Industries comprises a team of distinguished professionals who work strategically to identify, develop, and sustain a worldwide competitive offering of high-quality technological solutions to the healthcare community.

Online exclusive from OWM: KCI Donates Medical Supplies to Aid Haitian Earthquake Victims

admin — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 10:23:18 -0500

Wounds recently had the chance to talk with Kinetic Concepts, Inc.’s ([KCI] San Antonio, Texas) spokesperson Katie Gaultney to learn about her company’s efforts to provide much-needed medical supplies and aid to Haitian earthquake victims.

WOUNDS: Mrs. Gaultney, describe KCI’s efforts on behalf of Haitian earthquake victims.