Topical application of cellulose membrane for the treatment of non-healing venous leg ulcers.

INTRODUCTION

Venous leg ulcer (VLU) is a common, chronic condition that may lead to disability. Its frequency increases with age and generates high costs for healthcare systems. Bacterial cellulose is recognized as a natural wound repair material that meets the requirements of modern wound dressings, owing to its superior physicochemical characteristics and favorable biological properties. The aim of this study is to assess the effect of topical application of a cellulose membrane on the healing of chronic VLUs.

METHODS

Analysis included 100 patients with chronic VLUs divided into two groups of 50 patients each. Experimental group received a cellulose membrane, whereas control group received a standard antimicrobial calcium alginate dressing with silver. Planimetric measurements of the ulcer area before treatment and then every 7 days were performed, until the ulcer healed completely. The effectiveness of both treatments was compared regarding complete healing time and ulceration area reduction over time.

RESULTS

Patients in experimental group demonstrated significantly shorter complete healing time and a greater reduction in ulcer area over time in comparison to control group. However, in the control group, a temporary acceleration of healing process was observed between 5th and 7th week of treatment.

DISCUSSION: Our findings suggest that cellulose-based biomaterials may represent an effective and biocompatible alternative in the management of VLUs, offering improved healing outcomes and potential benefits for both patients and healthcare systems.