Experience in complex therapy of lower limb trophic ulcers of venous and diabetic origin

Abstract

Trophic ulcers (TU) associated with venous circulation pathology or diabetes mellitus are considered chronic wounds with all the attributes of the complex extracellular matrix (ECM) reorganization and tissue remodelling of the edges and bed of these wounds. It was therefore determined that only a comprehensive step-wise approach to the treatment of TU can produce a stable clinical result. The article presents the experience of comprehensive management of venous and diabetic TUs. Three clinical cases of management of patients with lower limb TUs are described. The treatment of patients was planned taking into account the accepted algorithms for the management of TU associated venous circulation pathology or diabetes mellitus. The topical therapy included advanced wound coverings. The choice of dressing was determined by the clinical course of wound process. Alginate dressings were used on stages I and II wounds; hydrocolloid dressings were used on stages II and III wounds. Effects resulting from treatment included almost complete healing or readiness of a TU for skin grafting. The topical therapy of venous and diabetic TUs is part of the comprehensive treatment. During phase 1 wound process, the topical drugs should have antimicrobial, necrolytic, draining, osmotic and analgesic action. During phase 2, the granulation tissue should be induced and the balanced moist environment should be created to promote tissue regeneration. The wound coverings specified in the above clinical examples are fully consistent with the principles of the TIME concept, their ease of use and comfort for the patient are pointed out.