Statement of Problem: Venous Stasis ulcers affect approximately 600,000 people in the United States every year and account for 80 to 90% of all leg ulcers. Venous disease can affect either one or both legs, result in large amounts of exudates and pain. They are often colonized or at risk for infection and become chronic and costly in the healing process. Rationale: Combining the use of two modalities of treatment such as a calcium alginate/CMC with silver dressing* with a four layer compression bandage** improved healing times tremendously.
Methodology: The poster will highlight three different case studies of patient with venous stasis ulcers of either one or both legs. Wound beds were cleansed using a non-ionic surfactant cleanser***, a skin protectant was applied to the periwound skin, and a calcium alginate/CMC impregnated with silver applied to the wound bed and a four layer compression bandage applied. Dressings were changed when the exudates wicked to the outside layer. Wear time varied from 3-7 days. Results: The results exceeded what was used previously. The calcium alginate/CMC with silver* proved to be highly absorptive, effective bacterial barrier that works well in conjunction with compression reducing edema and increasing blood flow resulting in optimum wound healing.
Conclusion: Venous ulcers often become chronic due to colonization. The increased exudates can result in increased pain and daily visits for patients resulting in additional cost. The combination of therapies proved to be effective and lowered costs for the home care agency.
*Maxorb Extra Ag, **Four Flex, ***Skintegrity Wound Cleanser, Medline
Industries, Inc.