A randomized clinical trial comparing hydrocolloid, phenytoin and simple dressings for the treatment of pressure ulcers [ISRCTN33429693]

BMC Dermatology, 2004 · DOI: 10.1186/1471-5945-4-18 · Published: December 15, 2004

Simple Explanation

This study investigated the effectiveness of hydrocolloid dressings (HD) compared to phenytoin cream (PC) and simple dressings (SD) in healing pressure ulcers. The study focused on stage I and II pressure ulcers in paraplegic male veterans of the Iran-Iraq war. The main finding was that hydrocolloid dressings were more effective in completely healing pressure ulcers compared to the other two methods.

Study Duration

10 months

Participants

83 paraplegic male victims of the Iran-Iraq war

Evidence Level

Level 1, Randomized clinical trial

Key Findings

1
Hydrocolloid dressings showed better complete healing rates for all ulcers (regardless of stage or location) compared to phenytoin cream and simple dressings.
2
Hydrocolloid dressings were significantly more effective in healing stage I ulcers than both phenytoin cream and simple dressings.
3
Hydrocolloid dressings demonstrated superior healing of stage II ulcers compared to simple dressings, but not significantly better than phenytoin cream.

Research Summary

This study compared hydrocolloid dressings (HD), phenytoin cream (PC), and simple dressings (SD) for treating stage I and II pressure ulcers in 83 paraplegic male war veterans. The results indicated that HD was more effective than PC and SD in achieving complete ulcer healing, particularly for stage I ulcers and gluteal/ischial ulcers. The study suggests that HD is a cost-effective and comfortable option for treating pressure ulcers in this patient population, potentially improving self-confidence and reducing healthcare costs.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

Hydrocolloid dressings should be considered as a first-line treatment for stage I and II pressure ulcers, especially in paraplegic patients.

Cost-Effectiveness

The use of hydrocolloid dressings may reduce overall healthcare costs associated with pressure ulcer management.

Patient Comfort

Hydrocolloid dressings offer increased patient comfort and convenience compared to traditional methods.

Study Limitations

1
The study population was limited to young, male paraplegic war veterans, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
2
The study only included stage I and II pressure ulcers; the effectiveness of hydrocolloid dressings on more severe ulcers was not assessed.
3
The lack of double-blinding may have introduced bias, although efforts were made to minimize this.

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