Exploring resveratrol-enriched collagen dressings for diabetic foot ulcers: A retrospective study of wound healing outcomes

Abstract

Background

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a common and severe complication of diabetes mellitus, often leading to prolonged hospitalization, high treatment costs, and potential amputations. Despite advances in wound care, current dressing materials often lack bioactive properties to modulate chronic wound environments.

Aim

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of resveratrol-enriched collagen dressings compared to standard collagen dressings in the management of Wagner grade 2 diabetic foot ulcers.

Methods

This retrospective study included 41 patients with Wagner grade 2 DFUs treated at a diabetic foot clinic. Nineteen patients received resveratrol-enriched collagen dressings, while 22 received standard collagen dressings. Patients were matched based on age, glycemic control (HbA1c), and arterial supply (ABPI). Primary and secondary outcomes included wound size reduction, hospitalization duration, and dressing frequency. Statistical analyses included Student's t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis.

Results

The resveratrol group demonstrated significantly greater wound size reduction (49.2 % ± 9.1 vs. 32.8 % ± 8.5; p = 0.021), shorter hospital stay (12.3 ± 2.8 vs. 14.5 ± 3.2 days; p = 0.045), and fewer dressing changes (19.8 ± 5.2 vs. 24.3 ± 6.7; p = 0.038). No adverse events were reported. Improved outcomes were attributed to resveratrol's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.

Conclusions

Resveratrol-enriched collagen dressings significantly improved clinical outcomes in DFUs, suggesting a promising adjunctive treatment strategy. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings and explore long-term benefits.