Use of a protease-modulating matrix in the treatment of pressure sores

Abstract

Improved diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities lead to a higher incidence of chronic ulcerative lesions. Several sociological and nursing problems related to these pathologies have oriented the research towards new specific materials and methodologies in wound dressing. The main concept is to modulate the environment of wounds in order to reduce healing time, thus minimising costs and the incidence of disabling outcomes. The Authors report on their experience with the use of a protease-modulating matrix (Promogran) in the treatment of pressure sores. A cohort of 80 selected patients was randomly divided into two groups, one of which was treated with the test material, while the other was submitted to conventional dressings and used as a control group. A cost-effectiveness analysis was carried out. Compared to the controls, the treated group showed a lower mean healing time and a greater frequency of complete healing. The cost-effectiveness balance was found to be more advantageous in the treated group as well. Due to its reliability and absence of adverse reactions, the use of a matrix with a modulating action on proteases may represent an effective treatment in the management of cleansed chronic cutaneous losses.