Compression stockings and non-continuous use of polyurethane foam dressings for the treatment of venous ulceration. A pilot study.

BACKGROUND

Venous ulceration is usually treated with Unna's boot. Recently another product, Ulcer-care, has been developed to treat these ulcers.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the therapeutic value of Ulcer-care.

METHODS

Over 24 months, 20 ambulatory patients with 30 lower extremity stasis ulcers were treated with a product consisting of: 1) a hydrophilic polyurethane sponge covered by a hydrophobic membrane changed daily or every other day; 2) an inner liner stocking that applies 10 mmHg pressure and is worn 24 hours a day; and 3) a surgical stocking with a posterior zipper that applies 30 mmHg graduated pressure and is removed at night.

RESULTS

All ulcers healed after 2 to 30 weeks (mean 8.3 weeks) including 15 previously treated by Unna's boot or hydrocolloid dressings and 3 infected ulcers.

CONCLUSION

The Ulcer care treatment for stasis ulcers is highly successful, easy to use, and well accepted by patients.