Randomised, comparative study of three primary dressings for the treatment of venous ulcers

Abstract

In this article, we describe a randomised trial in which two established primary dressings - Comfeel (Coloplast, UK) and Granuflex improved formulation (Convatec, UK) - were compared to Cutinova foam (Beiersdorf Medical, UK) in the management of venous leg ulcers. Patients that met the study trial criteria were randomised to receive one of the three primary dressings. All ulcers were secondarily bandaged with Comprilan (Beiersdorf Medical, UK) short-stretch compression. The three dressings were compared in terms of their ability to promote ulcer healing (closure rate and healing rate) and reduce the prevalence and severity of ulcer-associated pain, over a 12-week period. The ease with which dressings could be used in a busy outpatient clinic setting was also considered. On enrollment, groups were well matched in terms of all of the patient and ulcer parameters studies. Six patients were withdrawn for reasons unrelated to study dressings or trial procedures. Following non-parametric analysis of the study data, the three dressings were found to be equally effective at promoting ulcer healing and alleviating ulcer-associated pain. Study personnel rated Cutinova Foam as easy, if not easier, to use than Comfeel or Granuflex. This study suggests that Cutinova Foam is as safe and effective as both Comfeel and Granuflex, in the treatment of venous leg ulcers.