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Case Series/Study
Chronic wounds are often complicated by bacterial colonization, development of biofilm, and often infection, unable to support re-epithelialization failing to progress through an orderly and timely sequence of repair. These full thickness wounds often present secondarily to diabetes, surgical procedures, inadequate lower extremity vascularization, or trauma. The use of silver ions has been demonstrated to be effective against a broad range of bacteria to aid in healing complex wounds and burns. The purpose of this case series it to illustrate the use of a gelling fiber dressing containing extra silver ions* in full thickness wounds allowing for development of granulation tissue and neoepithelialization of the wound to closure.
Methods:
Four patients with full thickness wounds were treated with gelling fiber dressings impregnated with broad spectrum anti-microbial silver ions*. The gelling fiber dressing was placed onto the wound bed where devitalized tissue was removed using sharp and/or ultrasonic debridement. A secondary dressing was applied to secure the primary silver dressing, facilitating a moist healing environment. Adequate offloading and compression therapy was utilized as indicated. The silver gelling fiber was changed every 2-3 days.
Results:
Overall wound improvement and closure was appreciated in full thickness wounds. The silver ions assisted in providing an environment where granulation tissue was able to develop allowing for improved epithelialization. The wounds included were an arterial ulcer, a diabetic foot ulcer, and surgical wounds. Patient comorbidities included diabetes and inadequate lower extremity vascularization. Average initial wound size ranged from 3 – 15 cm2. The number of silver gelling fiber* applications ranged from 1-13 and time to complete wound epithelialization ranged from 45 – 90 days.
Discussion:
This case series exhibits successful treatment of complex chronic wounds using adequate wound bed preparation and a gelling fiber containing anti-microbial silver ions*. Similar outcomes have been achieved with alginate dressings impregnated with silver ions. Further study is required to determine if Extra Silver Gelling Fiber* can be a stand-alone dressing or a cover dressing over synthetic skin substitutes to improve healing efficacy.
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