Innovating Joint Health: Biovico’s Vision for Hyaluronic Acid Solutions
As a leading pharmaceutical company at the forefront of medical innovation, Biovico is proud to announce our strategic initiative to develop groundbreaking solutions centered around hyaluronic acid.
With a commitment to advancing patient care and enhancing the quality of life, our dedicated team is poised to revolutionize the field of joint health through the therapeutic potential of hyaluronic acid.
Understanding the significance of hyaluronic acid
Joints play a key role in functioning of musculoskeletal system, thus limitations in their function resulting from degeneration that lead to pain and discomfort significantly affect patients quality of life. Due to these pathologies affecting joint are a challenge constantly addressed by teams of researchers, clinicians and engineers not only seeking for new forms of therapy but also disease prevention.
Hyaluronic acid (HA), as the main component of the synovial fluid in the joints, plays a significant role in lubricating and cushioning of the joint tissues, allowing for the frictionless movement, thus being essential factor in patients mobility. HA is present not only in synovial fluid, being responsible for its high viscosity, but it is also essential component of the articular cartilage structure, where with aggrecans and collagens provides refined matrix network giving tissue is mechanical resistance.
Being fully aware of a fundamental role of HA and its importance in joint mobility, Biovico aims to use its unique properties in order to create therapies that can be applied to various joint-related pathologies.
Key Focus Areas for Hyaluronic Acid Solutions:
1. Intra-Articular Injections
Biovico’s research and development efforts are focused on refining intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid. For the past years Biovico has developed and introduced a whole range of hyaluronic acid injectable products with perfectly matched properties. Years of experience, including numerous laboratory experiments and clinical studies, resulted in a wealth of knowledge on importance of HA physicochemical properties in its mechanism of action during potential therapeutic applications. Biovico’s injectable products are characterized with optimally high molecular weight, individually adjusted concentration of sodium hyaluronate what finally results in appropriate viscosity of each gel dedicated for specific application. Our HA-based treatments have shown a great clinical promise in providing symptomatic relief for conditions such as osteoarthritis and injuries.
Biovico’s research and development efforts are focused on refining intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid. For the past years Biovico has developed and introduced a whole range of hyaluronic acid injectable products with perfectly matched properties. Years of experience, including numerous laboratory experiments and clinical studies, resulted in a wealth of knowledge on importance of HA physicochemical properties in its mechanism of action during potential therapeutic applications. Biovico’s injectable products are characterized with optimally high molecular weight, individually adjusted concentration of sodium hyaluronate what finally results in appropriate viscosity of each gel dedicated for specific application. Our HA-based treatments have shown a great clinical promise in providing symptomatic relief for conditions such as osteoarthritis and injuries.
Biovico continues to strive for excellence, continuing the development of more effective and innovative products that will bring relief to patients suffering from even more advanced joint pathologies.
2. Beyond pure HA in the synovial joint: The triad of perfect joint lubrication
Following the global direction in the search for the ideal synovial fluid substitute that aims to enhance the therapeutic potential of therapies based on intra-articular injections, our research and development center developed Biovico’s own innovative approach for viscosupplementation. Notably, literature data show that hyaluronic acid is able to provide ideal lubrication parameters in the joint only when it forms a direct link with phospholipids in a form of liposomes. Furthermore, the latest scientific research in the field of surface mechanics indicates that only the combination of hyaluronic acid and liposomes interacts molecularly with proteins on the surface of articular cartilage- lubricin, creating surfaces with virtually negligible friction. Based on that knowledge, Biovico created an intra-articular (I-A) injectable product that mimics and makes applicable the use of SYNERGY between HIALURONIC ACID linked with PHOSPHOLIPIDS in form of liposomes that further interacts with LUBRICIN in order to provide lowered friction. Biovico created the theory of ideal joint lubrication TRIAD which is used in Lipotris- a liposomal intra-articular gel.
Consequently, further rigorously designed clinical trial of Lipotris delivered solid data for clinical functionality of the therapy based on three injections of liposomal intra-articular gel into OA affected joints. Obtained clinical data served as a cornerstone for the successful introduction of a Lipotris to the market, and at the same time solidified the clinical significance of the ideal lubrication with HA and liposomes in synovial joint functioning.
3. Customized Treatment Plans:
Biovico recognizes the importance of personalized medicine. Our approach involves tailoring hyaluronic acid-based treatment plans to the unique needs of each patient. By considering factors such as the severity of the condition and individual patient characteristics, we aim to optimize treatment outcomes. With such a wide range of IA injections we are able to provide a tailored approach depending on individual patient characteristics, the severity of OA, and the specific goals of treatment with the following route:
I. Patient assessment
II. Determination of the severity of osteoarthritis
III. Consideration of treatment goals
IV. Frequency and timing of treatment accepted by the patient
V. Selecting the appropriate intra-articular solution
VI. Possible combination therapies with other agents like PRP or DKK-1 rich blood derived product
]]>Hemostatic Agents: Key Players in Controlling Bleeding
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Tue, 22 Oct 2024 08:19:04 +0000https://surgitech.net/?p=8949
Hemostatic Agents: Key Players in Controlling Bleeding
Abdelwahab Ayman
Understanding Hemostatic Agents: Key Players in Controlling Bleeding
Hemostasis, the process of stopping bleeding, is a critical aspect of medical care in various settings, from emergency medicine to surgical procedures. Hemostatic agents play a vital role in facilitating this process by promoting clot formation and stabilizing the wound site. This article provides an overview of hemostatic agents, their types, applications, and considerations for their use.
What are Hemostatic Agents?
Hemostatic agents are substances that aid in the cessation of bleeding by enhancing the body’s natural coagulation mechanisms. They can be classified into several categories based on their composition and mechanism of action. These agents are used in various medical settings, including trauma care, surgery, and dental procedures, to manage both minor and severe bleeding.
Types of Hemostatic Agents
Hemostatic agents can be grouped into three main categories:
1. Biological Agents
These agents are derived from biological materials and work by promoting the body’s natural clotting process. Examples include:
Fibrin Sealants: Made from fibrinogen and thrombin, these sealants mimic the final stages of the clotting cascade, forming a stable clot at the injury site.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): A concentration of platelets derived from a patient’s own blood, PRP contains growth factors that enhance healing and clot formation.
2. Synthetic Agents
Synthetic hemostatic agents are chemically manufactured to control bleeding effectively. Examples include:
Tranexamic Acid (TXA): An antifibrinolytic agent that helps prevent the breakdown of fibrin clots, thereby supporting hemostasis, especially in trauma or surgical settings.
Chitosan-Based Products: Derived from chitin (found in shellfish), these products promote clotting by interacting with red blood cells and platelets.
3. Mechanical Agents
Mechanical hemostatic agents act physically to control bleeding. These include:
Gauze and Dressings: Specialized dressings like those infused with pro-coagulant substances can accelerate clotting when applied to a bleeding wound.
Surgical Devices: Tools such as staplers or clips used during surgery can mechanically occlude blood vessels to stop bleeding.
Applications of Hemostatic Agents
Hemostatic agents are used in a variety of medical scenarios:
Trauma Care: In emergency medicine, hemostatic agents are crucial for controlling external bleeding in trauma patients.
Surgery: Surgeons use these agents during procedures to minimize blood loss, especially in areas with high vascularity.
Dental Procedures: Dentists apply hemostatic agents to control bleeding during extractions or periodontal surgeries.
Obstetrics: Postpartum hemorrhage can be managed with hemostatic agents to prevent excessive blood loss after childbirth.
Benefits of Hemostatic Agents
Rapid Control of Bleeding: Hemostatic agents can quickly stabilize bleeding, which is vital in emergency situations.
Reduced Need for Transfusions: Effective hemostatic management can minimize the need for blood transfusions, decreasing associated risks.
Enhanced Healing: Certain agents not only stop bleeding but also promote tissue repair and recovery.
Versatility: Hemostatic agents can be used in various medical fields, making them essential tools for healthcare professionals.
Considerations and Limitations
While hemostatic agents provide significant benefits, there are important considerations:
Patient-Specific Factors: The effectiveness of hemostatic agents may vary based on the patient’s overall health, medication use, and specific bleeding conditions.
Risk of Complications: Some agents may pose risks, such as allergic reactions or thromboembolic events, particularly in patients with pre-existing conditions.
Regulatory Oversight: The use of hemostatic agents is subject to regulatory guidelines, and it is essential to use products that meet safety and efficacy standards.
Understanding Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Kits: A Comprehensive Overview
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has gained significant traction in various medical fields, particularly in orthopedics, dermatology, and cosmetic procedures. Central to this innovative treatment is the PRP kit, which facilitates the collection and preparation of platelet-rich plasma. This article delves into what PRP kits are, how they work, their applications, and considerations for use.
What is PRP?
Platelet-rich plasma is a concentrated solution derived from a patient’s own blood. It contains a higher concentration of platelets compared to normal blood, along with growth factors and other bioactive proteins that promote healing and tissue regeneration. The ability to harness these components has made PRP an appealing option for various therapeutic applications.
Components of a PRP Kit
A typical PRP kit includes several essential components:
Collection Tubes: These tubes are specially designed to collect blood from the patient. They often contain anticoagulants to prevent clotting during the processing phase.
Centrifuge: This is a critical piece of equipment used to spin the collected blood at high speeds. The centrifugal force separates the blood into its components: red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma, and platelets.
Preparation Tools: After centrifugation, tools such as syringes or pipettes are used to extract the PRP from the separated plasma.
Instructions and Guidelines: Most kits come with detailed instructions for healthcare providers to ensure proper handling and processing of blood samples.
How PRP Kits Work
The process of using a PRP kit generally follows these steps:
Blood Collection: A healthcare professional draws a small amount of blood from the patient, typically from the arm.
Centrifugation: The blood is placed in the collection tubes and spun in a centrifuge. This process separates the components based on density, allowing for the isolation of PRP.
Extraction of PRP: Once centrifugation is complete, the healthcare provider extracts the PRP, which is the upper layer of the spun blood.
Application: The PRP is then injected into the targeted area for treatment, whether it be for joint pain, hair restoration, or skin rejuvenation.
Applications of PRP Therapy
PRP therapy has a wide range of applications across various fields:
Orthopedics: Used to treat tendon injuries, osteoarthritis, and ligament sprains by promoting healing in the affected tissues.
Dermatology: PRP is increasingly popular for facial rejuvenation and acne scar treatment, leveraging its regenerative properties to improve skin texture and elasticity.
Hair Restoration: PRP has been used to stimulate hair growth in individuals experiencing androgenetic alopecia or other types of hair loss.
Sports Medicine: Athletes often utilize PRP therapy to expedite recovery from injuries and enhance performance by healing damaged tissues.
Benefits of Using PRP Kits
Minimally Invasive: PRP therapy involves a simple blood draw, making it less invasive than many surgical options.
Autologous Treatment: Since PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood, the risk of allergic reactions or transmission of diseases is significantly reduced.
Enhanced Healing: The growth factors in PRP can accelerate the body’s natural healing processes, potentially leading to quicker recovery times.
Versatility: PRP can be used in various medical and aesthetic procedures, making it a multifaceted tool in healthcare.
Considerations and Limitations
While PRP therapy shows promise, there are considerations to keep in mind:
Efficacy: Research on the effectiveness of PRP can be mixed, with results varying based on the condition being treated and individual patient factors.
Regulation: The use of PRP kits is subject to regulatory oversight, and it’s essential to ensure that products are sourced from reputable manufacturers.
Training and Experience: Proper administration of PRP requires trained professionals to maximize benefits and minimize risks.
]]>Understanding Shoulder and Knee Arthroscopy: A Guide for Athletes and Active Individuals
https://surgitech.net/understanding-shoulder-and-knee-arthroscopy-a-guide-for-athletes-and-active-individuals/
Tue, 22 Oct 2024 07:45:16 +0000https://surgitech.net/?p=8926Arthroscopy has revolutionized the way orthopedic surgeons approach joint injuries, particularly in the shoulder and knee. As a minimally invasive technique, arthroscopy allows for both diagnosis and treatment of various conditions, offering athletes and active individuals a quicker recovery and return to their sport. This article delves into the specifics of shoulder and knee arthroscopy, including indications, procedures, benefits, and recovery.
What is Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure that involves inserting a small camera, called an arthroscope, into a joint through tiny incisions. This camera allows surgeons to visualize the inside of the joint on a monitor, enabling them to diagnose problems and perform necessary repairs with precision.
Shoulder Arthroscopy
Indications
Shoulder arthroscopy is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
Rotator Cuff Tears: Repairing torn tendons that can cause pain and limit mobility.
Shoulder Impingement: Addressing issues where the shoulder bones rub against the tendons or bursa.
Labral Tears: Repairing damage to the cartilage that surrounds the shoulder joint.
Shoulder Instability: Stabilizing a shoulder that frequently dislocates.
Procedure
During shoulder arthroscopy, the surgeon makes small incisions around the shoulder joint. The arthroscope is inserted, allowing for visualization of the internal structures. Specialized instruments are used to perform repairs, such as suturing torn tissues or removing damaged cartilage.
Benefits
Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions lead to less pain and scarring.
Quick Recovery: Patients often return to daily activities sooner than with open surgery.
Effective Pain Relief: Many patients experience significant pain reduction after surgery.
Knee Arthroscopy
Indications
Knee arthroscopy is frequently employed to treat issues such as:
Meniscus Tears: Repairing or removing damaged cartilage in the knee.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries: Reconstruction of torn ligaments to restore stability.
Cartilage Damage: Addressing chondral injuries to improve knee function.
Loose Bodies: Removing fragments of bone or cartilage that cause pain and limit movement.
Procedure
In knee arthroscopy, the surgeon makes a few small incisions around the knee joint. The arthroscope provides a clear view of the joint, allowing the surgeon to identify and treat issues with precision. Repairs might involve suturing the meniscus or ligament, or removing damaged tissue.
Benefits
Reduced Recovery Time: Patients typically experience a faster recovery and can often resume normal activities within weeks.
Less Postoperative Pain: The minimally invasive nature of the procedure often results in lower pain levels post-surgery.
Improved Functionality: Many patients report better knee stability and function after the procedure.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery after shoulder or knee arthroscopy generally involves a structured rehabilitation program. This may include:
Physical Therapy: Tailored exercises to restore strength and flexibility.
Gradual Return to Activity: Athletes typically follow a phased approach, slowly increasing intensity based on their recovery.
Pain Management: Medications and ice therapy can help manage pain and swelling.
]]>
The Role of Arthroscopy in Sports Medicine
https://surgitech.net/the-role-of-arthroscopy-in-sports-medicine/
Tue, 22 Oct 2024 07:39:29 +0000https://surgitech.net/?p=8919
The Role of Arthroscopy in Sports Medicine
The Role of Arthroscopy in Sports Medicine: Advancements and Applications
Arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgical technique, has become a cornerstone in sports medicine. It allows orthopedic surgeons to diagnose and treat joint issues with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. This article explores the advancements in arthroscopic techniques, their applications in sports medicine, and the benefits they offer to athletes.
What is Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy involves the use of an arthroscope, a small camera that provides real-time images of the inside of a joint. Through small incisions, surgeons can insert the arthroscope along with specialized surgical instruments to perform procedures such as repair of torn ligaments, removal of loose bodies, and treatment of cartilage damage.
Advancements in Arthroscopic Techniques
Enhanced Visualization: Modern arthroscopes come equipped with high-definition cameras and advanced optics, allowing for clearer visualization of joint structures. This enhancement improves diagnostic accuracy and facilitates more precise surgical interventions.
3D Imaging: The introduction of 3D imaging technology in arthroscopy has revolutionized how surgeons view and operate within the joint space. This technology provides a more comprehensive view, leading to better decision-making during procedures.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery: Robotics in arthroscopy is emerging, offering improved precision and control during surgeries. This innovation can reduce recovery times and enhance outcomes for athletes.
Biologics: The integration of biologic treatments, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapies, alongside arthroscopic procedures is gaining traction. These therapies aim to enhance healing and reduce recovery times for injuries.
]]>معالجة جروح القدم السكرية بالطريقة الصحيحة
https://surgitech.net/%d9%85%d8%b9%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%ac%d8%a9-%d8%ac%d8%b1%d9%88%d8%ad-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%82%d8%af%d9%85-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b3%d9%83%d8%b1%d9%8a%d8%a9-%d8%a8%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%b7%d8%b1%d9%8a%d9%82%d8%a9-%d8%a7%d9%84/
Thu, 15 Aug 2024 08:57:29 +0000https://surgitech.net/?p=7638
معالجة جروح القدم السكرية بالطريقة الصحيحة
Abdelwahab Ayman
معالجة جروح القدم السكرية بالطريقة الصحيحة، تقي فقدان الأطراف
تعد مضاعفات قرح القدم السكرية مشكلة رئيسية في نظام الصحة العامة في تايلاند. وذلك لأنه عند الإصابة بجرح سكري في مكان ما من الجسم، فإنه عادةً ما يأخذ وقتاً طويلاُ للتعافي. ونتيجة لذلك، تنخفض جودة حياة المريض، وتزداد تكاليف الرعاية الصحية له. حيث إن من أسباب صعوبة الإلتئام لجروح القدم السكرية، تعود إلى أساس مرض السكري نفسه، الذي يصيب الأجهزة المختلفة في الجسم بالتلف، وذلك مثل:
تلف الجهاز العصبي الحسي: حيث يجعل المرضى يفقدون الإحساس بالألم، وكذلك الشعور بالحرارة أو البرودة. مما ينتج عن ذلك، الإصابة بالقرح السكرية من دون علم ودون الشعور بالألم، مع الإستمرار في استخدام القدم بشكل طبيعي. مما يسبب ضغطاً من الجسم على الجروح طوال الوقت، فيبطئ إلتئامها أو قد لا تلتئم.
تلفالجهاز العصبي اللاإرادي: وهو مما يسبب جفاف جلد لدى المريض، والتعرق بشكل أقل تقلص أو توسع غير طبيعي في الأوعية الدموية، تورم القدمين، جفاف الجلد وتشققه وهو العامل الذي يمكن أن يثير تطور تقرحات القدم السكرية.
تلفالجهازالعصبيالذي يتحكم فيالعضلات: ويؤدي هذا إلى ضمور العضلات الصغيرة في القدمين، مما يؤدي إلى فقدان التوازن بين الأوتار والعضلات في القدمين. فبالتالي يؤدي إلى ميلان إصبع القدم وتشوهه. لاسيما أنه في الحالات الشديدة يمكن أن يؤثر على عظام القدم، كحدوث ضعف لعظام القدم وتشوهها، أو حدوث كسور للعظام أو تدهورها بسبب عدم التساوي في توزيع حمولة الجسم على القدمين عند الوقوف أو المشي، مما يمكن أن يسبب القرح السكرية.
تلف نظامالأوعيةالدموية: والذي يسبب في تصلب الشرايين وانسدادها مما يؤدي إلى نقص تدفق الدم إلى الأنسجة العضلية في القدمين، فبالتالي يؤدي إلى عدم التئام الجروح.
كيفية الوقاية من تقرحات القدم السكرية:
ضبط مستويات السكر في الدم.
المحافظة على نظافة القدم.
فحص القدمين يومياً، للبحث عن أي جروح أو تقرحات سكرية.
إختيار الأحذية المناسبة التي لا تضغط على القدم بقوة.
وضع الكريمات المرطبة لعلاج جفاف الجلد.
لبس الجوارب قبل إرتداء الأحذية.
عدم نقع القدمين في الماء الساخن.
قص الأظافر والعناية بها بشكل صحيح.
الإمتناع عن التدخين.
إن إتباع الطرق الصحيحة في معالجة القرح السكرية، يساعد على الوقاية من بتر الأطراف. والتي تتضمن: التحكم في معدل السكر في الدم بحيث يكون في المستوى الطبيعي، تضميد الجرح بشكل صحيح، إزالة الأنسجة الميتة جراحياً، استخدام المضادات الحيوية إذا كان هناك إلتهاب في الجرح، إرتداء الأحذية الخاصة بالمصابين بالقرح السكرية التي لا تضيّق أو تضغط على القدم، معالجة العظام أو الأصابع المشوهة أو مشاكل انسداد الشرايين والأوعية الدموية بالجراحة .
بالإضافة إلى ذلك، في وقتنا الحاضر، هناك طرق جديدة في تضميد الجروح، كاستخدام تقنية العلاج بالضغط السلبي (vacuum dressing)، والعلاج بالأكسجين عالي الضغط (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy). إذ تساعد هذه الأجهزة والتقنيات على تحفيز التئام الجرح بشكل أفضل وأسرع.
THE STORY OF SAFETAC. The technology that changed wound care forever
Safetac®’s journey all began with a man named Tomas Fabo. In the mid-1980s, he was a young product developer working in the research and development department of Mölnlycke®’s wound care division. At this time, the company’s wound care portfolio was made up of conventional products like Mesalt®, Mepore®, MeZink® and Mesorb®. Fabo belonged to a team of just a handful of people and the Wound Care division’s turnover was a fraction of what it is today.
Back then, Tomas was out on the field seeking inspiration for product development, observing patients as their dressings were being changed. Among the many observations he made, one thing that struck and never truly left him was the way patients suffered during dressing changes. He was haunted by the sight of grown men crying and children having to be sedated – all because of the pain. This gave Tomas a true sense of urgency and purpose. Despite limited resources, he continued experimenting, feeling that he somehow owed it to these patients. During these experiments, he came upon some test tubes with an interesting sticky substance which turned out to be silicone.
He started to experiment with this. The story goes that he did a lot of the work in his own kitchen — dipping scraps of his daughter’s stockings in melted silicone, curing the material in his own oven until finally, Mepitel® was born in May 1989. Mepitel’s promise was wonderfully simple: it wouldn’t stick to the wound or damage the skin and because of this, it wouldn’t hurt when removed. Mölnlycke presented the market with a dressing addressing a problem that left most clinicians at a loss. While healthcare professionals were obviously aware of the pain dressings inflicted on patients, many felt powerless to help. In addition, we charged roughly 20 times more than the market standard, making sales slow and the first years an uphill battle. In the early days, the question came up every year: should the company continue producing Mepitel® or not? Some people literally cried in meetings, trying to stop Mepitel from being discontinued. In the mid-90s, Mölnlycke finally decided to keep Mepitel® once and for all – even deciding to expand the offer. The gentle adhesive of Mepitel was melded to a soft and conformable foam, and in 1999 Mepilex® was launched. At this time, the company also decided to brand the adhesive itself as Safetac®.
In 2001, we launched Mepilex® Border, an all-in-one dressing with Safetac® – and excellent exudate management properties. Like Mepitel®, this product was a true game changer for Mölnlycke – and for wound care as the world knew it. In the years that followed, additional versions of dressings with Safetac® was launched. Versions included the Lite variant, transfer dressings and silver-infused dressings like Mepilex® Ag. Mepilex Ag paved the way for our success in the US, significantly changing standards of care for burn patients. And with the advent of Mepilex® Border Sacrum, we went beyond healing and built evidence on how pressure ulcers could be prevented. With products, evidence and opinion building, Mölnlycke Health Care has changed wound care forever. Since the launch of Mepitel® in May 1989, we have sold well over 4 billion dressings with Safetac®, helping create a less painful healing experience for perhaps 100 million people – and prevented hundreds of thousands of pressure ulcers. Tomas Fabo’s invention, a dressing adhesive that takes the unnecessary suffering out of wound care, has made Mölnlycke what it is today. This is who Mölnlycke is. This made us and shaped us into who we are today. Let us keep this in mind as we head into the future. We encourage all of our colleagues to keep the same caring, inventive spark going. This passion we have for meeting customers’ needs will guide us in always innovating, and help us maintain our position as a guiding pioneer in the world of wound care.
Diabetic foot ulcer is a common and serious complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus 1 . Diabetes is associated with ischaemia, neuropathy and deformities that lead to a particularly high risk of developing foot ulcers and a low likelihood of ulcer healing. Diabetic foot ulcers present a wound-healing challenge; infection, exudate, and pain need to be managed appropriately, preferably with a dressing that can manage one or more factors to prevent delayed healing and reduced quality of life. This case report outlines the management of a man presenting with a diabetic foot ulcer at a clinic in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Wound healing was successfully achieved 7 weeks after the initial clinic visit with Mepilex® Ag dressing (Mölnlycke Health Care) combined with Safetec® (Mölnlycke Health Care) soft silicone technology
Diabetic foot ulcer Tackling one of the most serious complications of diabetes.
Diabetic foot ulcer is a common and serious complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus1. Diabetes is associated with ischaemia, neuropathy and deformities that lead to a particularly high risk of developing foot ulcers and a low likelihood of ulcer healing. Because of the reduced blood supply to the lower limb, diabetic foot ulcers are prone to necrosis, infection, and involvement of deep tissues, including bone2. The age-adjusted rate of lower-limb amputation is estimated to be 15 times greater in individuals with diabetes than in the general population1 2 3. Approaches to the management of diabetic foot ulcer include debridement, protection from trauma, treatment of infection, control of exudate, and promotion of healing
Patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus have a lifetime risk of a foot ulcer of up to 25%2 3. Infected or ischaemic diabetic foot ulcers account for approximately 25% of all hospital admissions for patients with diabetes3 4. Diabetic foot ulcers account for almost two-thirds of all non-traumatic lower limb amputations performed in the Europe and the US1 4 5. These findings show how important it is to manage diabetic foot ulcer appropriately, quickly, and effectively.
Aetiology
The causes of diabetic foot ulceration are a combination of chronic narrowing of small arterioles that supply oxygen to the tissues, diabetic arteriolosclerosis, which results in tissue ischaemia, and high venous pressure, resulting in tissue oedema and hypoxia2. Patients with diabetes develop specific risk factors that lead to foot ulcers, including loss of sensation due to diabetic neuropathy, prior skin damage or ulcers, foot deformity or other causes of pressure, external trauma, infection, and chronic ischaemia due to peripheral artery disease
Clinical and economic burden
Globally, an estimated 422 million adults were living with diabetes in 2014, compared with 108 million in 1980 1. The global prevalence (age-standardised) of diabetes has nearly doubled since 1980, rising from 4.7% to 8.5% in the adult population, which reflects an increase in associated risk factors, mainly due to obesity. 1 Rates of lower limb amputation, due to diabetic foot ulcer, are typically ten to 20 times those of non-diabetic populations 7. In the US, in 2010, approximately 73,000 non-traumatic lower-limb amputations were performed in adults aged 20 years or older with diabetes; 60% occurred in people with diabetes. 7 In the US, Medicare claims data showed that between 2006 and 2008, patients with a diabetic foot ulcer were seen by their outpatient healthcare provider about 14 times per year and were hospitalised about 1.5 times per year. The US claims data also showed that the cost of care for each claimant with a diabetic foot ulcer was about USD 33,000 for all Medicare services per year 8. Patients with a lower extremity amputation were seen by their outpatient healthcare provider about 12 times per year and were hospitalised about twice per year, with the total cost of care of USD 52,000 per year. 8
Effects on patient quality of life
Studies have shown that patients with diabetes who have a healed foot ulcer have a greater health-related quality of life (HRQoL) when compared with patients with chronic, non-healed diabetic foot ulcers when evaluated using standard questionnaires 9 . Also, for caregivers of diabetic patients with chronic, non-healing foot ulcers, there is a large emotional burden 9 .
Management
Successful treatment and diagnosis of patients with diabetic foot ulcers involves a holistic approach that includes the patients physical, psychological and social health and the status of the wound 10 . The management of diabetic foot ulcer begins with assessment, grading, and classifying the ulcer based on clinical evaluation of the extent and depth of the ulcer and the presence of infection, which determine the nature and intensity of treatment 6 11 . The degree of ischaemia for patients with diabetic foot ulcers is assessed by ankle-brachial index (ABI) and toe pressure measurements 11 . To test the peripheral neuropathy there is two simple and effective tests used:
Risk of infection
Chronic non-healing ulcers of the foot are susceptible to infection, which can lead to serious complications, including osteomyelitis and septicaemia 16 17 . When a diagnosis of ulcer infection is made, treatment is based on the clinical stage of infection, and X-ray imaging is usually performed to exclude or confirm osteomyelitis 17 . The most common infecting organisms include aerobic Gram-positive cocci, aerobic gram-negative bacilli, and anaerobic organisms in deep ulcers 16 17 18 . According to the Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) guidelines, infection is present if there is obvious purulent drainage and/or the presence of two or more signs of inflammation (erythema, pain, tenderness, warmth, or induration 17 . The management and treatment of infection of a diabetic foot ulcer should include a multidisciplinary team of experts including surgeons, infectious disease specialists, diabetologists, microbiologist sand nursing staff 17 .
The role of dressings in the management of diabetic foot ulcers
Following debridement, the diabetic foot ulcershould be kept clean and moist but free of excess exudate, with dressings selected based upon the ulcer characteristics, such as the extent of exudate, or necrotic tissue 19.Some dressings are also impregnated with antimicrobial agents to prevent infection and enhance ulcer healing 20. By using a dressing that create a moist wound healing a natural process to soften and remove devitalised tissue will occur, this process is called autolytic debridement. Care must be taken not to use a moisture donating dressing as this can predispose to maceration. In addition, the application of moisture-retentive dressings in the presence of ischaemia and/or dry gangrene is notrecommended 21 22. It is important to incorporate strategies to prevent trauma and minimise wound-related pain during dressing changes 23. This may include the useof soft silicone dressings and avoiding unnecessary manipulation of the wound 24. It is now acknowledged that many patients, even those with neuropathy or neuroischaemia, can feel pain due to their wound or a procedure 24.
Other advanced treatments for diabetic foot ulcers
Adjunctive therapies may improve ulcer healing, such as negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), the use of custom-fit semipermeable polymeric membrane dressings, cultured human dermal grafts, and application of growth factors 25. All ulcers subjected to sustained or frequent pressure and stress, including pressure-related heel ulcers or medial and lateral foot ulcersor repetitive moderate pressure (plantar foot ulcers) benefit from pressure reduction, which is accomplished with mechanical offloading. Offloading devices include total contact casts, cast walkers, shoe modifications, and other devices to assist in mobility 25.
Patient education of self – care
Effective foot care should be a partnership between patients, carers and healthcare professionals. Educating patients about proper foot care and periodic foot examinations are effective interventions to prevent ulceration 26.