Current Issue

Skin Ulcers in a Patient Afflicted With Microscopic Polyangiitis

admin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:51:32 -0400

Abstract: Systemic vasculitis is a group of heterogeneous diseases characterized by inflammation and blood vessel walls necrosis. Usually the skin is one of the first organs involved, especially with damage of small to medium size vessels. The cutaneous patterns may help clinicians to diagnose these diseases at the beginning of their course, preventing complications due to internal organ involvement. The following case presents a patient with a microscopic polyangiitis that started with several skin ulcerations localized on the inferior limbs.

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Cellulose Dressing Vs Rayon Dressing in Skin Graft Donor Sites: Aspects of Patients’ Health-related QOL and Self-esteem

admin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 09:14:24 -0400

Abstract: Objective. The aim of this study was to compare the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and self-esteem of patients who underwent split-thickness skin grafting, when either cellulose dressings or rayon dressings were applied to the donor sites. Methods. A total of 25 patients, who were enrolled at five participant hospitals and required split-thickness skin grafting for various clinical reasons, were randomized into two treatment groups, the rayon dressing group (n = 13), or the cellulose dressing group (n = 12).

Limited Access Dressing and Maggots

admin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 09:23:01 -0400

Abstract: A case of infected wounds with lymphedema (non-pitting with skin changes) on the left leg showed maggots in the wounds that were covered by slough that extended under the skin edge. The patient had diabetes mellitus and hypertension (on treatment). Removal of the maggots with our routinely practiced method using turpentine oil and closed gauge dressing was tried but failed. After 3 days, closed dressing limited access dressing (LAD) technique was applied, which cleared the wound without allowing the maggots to escape from the dressing.

Evaluation of Nutrition in the Healing of Pressure Ulcers: Are the EPUAP Nutritional Guidelines Sufficient To Heal Wounds?

admin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 09:59:54 -0400

Abstract: Malnutrition is a significant factor in the development of pressure ulcers and many nutritional guidelines for preventing pressure ulcers have been published. However, few clinical investigations have examined the energy required to heal pressure ulcers. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between nutritional intake and improvement of pressure ulcers. Total calories, which were supplied by mouth through a feeding tube and via venous alimentation were examined for 40 hospitalized bedridden inpatients who had pressure ulcers.

The Effect of Topically Applied Recombinant Human Growth Hormone on Wound Healing in Pigs

admin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:09:57 -0400

Abstract: The beneficial wound healing effect of the systemic growth hormone (GH) mediated by insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) has been widely reported. Recent studies have suggested that GH facilitates wound healing not by circulating IGF-1, but by local IGF-1 produced in the wound itself. The aim of this study was to define whether the locally administered GH could accelerate the wound-healing rate. Full-thickness skin defects (diameter 4 cm) were made in the back of micropigs, and GH (2.5 IU/L) was applied every other day for 3 weeks (11 times total).

Tools of Our Trade

admin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:02:38 -0400

Dear Readers,

Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (IPC)

admin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:14:18 -0400

Dear Readers:

Within 5 years after experiencing a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), 1 in 3 individuals will develop swelling and skin changes associated with post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS).¹ Graduated, high-compression bandages and stockings are effective at healing venous leg ulcers, preventing progression of PTS and managing lymphedema,² but are most effective in ambulatory individuals. How much does walking help, and could increased calf muscle activity enhance the benefits of recognized compression therapies?

Industry News June 2009

admin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:30:26 -0400

Melgisorb® Ag Claims Receive FDA Clearance

Product News June 2009

admin — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:35:57 -0400

KCI’s ABThera™ Open Abdomen Dressing Receives FDA Clearance

Kinetic Concepts Inc ([KCI] San Antonio, Tex) recently received 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market its ABThera™ Open Abdomen Dressing. Earlier this year, the FDA cleared the ABThera™ Open Abdomen Negative Pressure Therapy Unit. Together, the ABThera Open Abdomen Negative Pressure Therapy System will be indicated for temporary bridging of abdominal wall openings where primary closure is not possible or where repeat abdominal entries are necessary.