A New Powder Dressing for Management of Chronic Venous Ulcers

Abstract

BACKGROUND A new powder dressing (TPD) is a methacrylate-based powder formulation that transforms in situ into a shape-retentive matrix upon hydration to create optimum moist wound healing conditions. The following randomized, controlled, clinical study aimed to evaluate the role of TPD in the management of chronic venous ulcers (CVU). METHODS The randomized controlled prospective study enrolled 60 CVU patients. After randomization, patients in the treatment group (n = 30) were treated with TPD, whereas those in the control group (n = 30) received conventional compression dressing therapy. RESULTS After treatment, patients in the TPD group had significantly higher rates of complete ulcer healing at 12 weeks (43.3% vs 10.0%, p = .004) and 24 weeks (86.7% vs 40.0%, p = .001) when compared with conventional dressing group. Moreover, patients in the TP dressing group had significantly shorter time to complete ulcer healing [mean (95% CI): 16.7 (14.1–19.3) versus 37.0 (30.8–43.2) weeks, p = .001]. In addition, patients in the TPD group had significantly fewer number of dressings, less severe pain after dressing, and lower need for systemic analgesics. CONCLUSION Use of TPD in management of CVUs was associated with significantly higher healing rates, shorter duration to healing, and lower pain.