Medizinische Universität Graz Austria/Österreich - Forschungsportal - Medical University of Graz
Gewählte Publikation:
Aichner, E.
A prospective clinical trial comparing three different dressing materials for donor site wounds in elderly patients undergoing split-thickness skin graft surgery
Humanmedizin; [ Diplomarbeit ] Medical University of Graz; 2014. pp. 70
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- Autor*innen der Med Uni Graz:
- Betreuer*innen:
- Kamolz Lars-Peter
- Parvizi Daryousch
- Altmetrics:
- Abstract:
- Background: Skin grafting is a well-established procedure using skin or skin substitute to cover non-healing wounds or burns. Management of donor site wounds with a suitable dressing material in high-risk patient groups is crucial. These wounds are often painful for patients and can be infected as healing time especially in patients with comorbidities like diabetes or hypertension can be prolonged. Methods: The aim of this study was to compare three different dressing materials in donor site wounds in a prospective clinical trial in a patient cohort aged 55 or older with one or more comorbidities. The grafts were harvested in a standardized procedure and wounds were dressed under sterile conditions with Biatain Ibu, Mepilex Ag or Suprathel. Dressing changes were scheduled day 10 to 14 when re-epithelialization was expected. Wound healing was photodocumented and evaluated using the Hollander Wound Evaluation Scale (HWES). Pain scores were evaluated daily according to the VAS-Scale (from 1 to 10) and pain medication used by patients was recorded. Results: Patients with Biatain Ibu Dressing (p<0.001) and Suprathel (p<0.004) showed a statistically significant pain reduction up to two weeks postoperatively. No statistically difference was obsered in re-epithelialization time, ease of use and patients staisfaction between the foam dressings and Suprathel. Six patients (three each with Mepilex Ag and with Suprathel) required extra pain medication. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that Biatain Ibu should be used as a standard dressing in elderly patients to reduce postoperative pain effectively. Suprathel fulfills the same qualities, but is more expensive. No statistically significant difference in handling and patient comfort, as well as patient satisfaction, was observed in the study.