A single-arm trial indirect comparison investigation: a proof-of-concept method to predict venous leg ulcer healing time for a new acellular synthetic matrix matched to standard care control

To compare data on time to healing from two separate cohorts: one treated with a new acellular synthetic matrix plus standard care (SC) and one matched from four large UK pragmatic, randomised controlled trials [venous leg ulcer (VLU) evidence network]. We introduce a new proof-of-concept strategy to a VLU clinical evidence network, propensity score matching and sensitivity analysis to predict the feasibility of the new acellular synthetic matrix plus SC for success in future randomised, controlled clinical trials. Prospective data on chronic VLUs from a safety and effectiveness study on an acellular synthetic matrix conducted in one wound centre in the UK (17 patients) and three wound centres in Australia (36 patients) were compared retrospectively to propensity score-matched data from patients with comparable leg ulcer disease aetiology, age, baseline ulcer area, ulcer duration, multi-layer compression bandaging and majority of care completed in specialist wound centres (average of 1 visit per week), with the outcome measures at comparable follow-up periods from patients enrolled in four prospective, multicentre, pragmatic, randomised studies of venous ulcers in the UK (the comparison group; VLU evidence network). Analysis using Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed a mean healing time of 73·1 days for ASM plus SC (ASM) treated ulcers in comparison with 83·5 days for comparison group ulcers treated with SC alone (Log rank test, χ2 5·779, P = 0·016) within 12 weeks. Sensitivity analysis indicates that an unobserved covariate would have to change the odds of healing for SC by a factor of 1·1 to impact the baseline results. Results from this study predict a significant effect on healing time when using a new ASM as an adjunct to SC in the treatment of non-healing venous ulcers in the UK, but results are sensitive to unobserved covariates that may be important in healing time comparison.

Hair follicle-containing punch grafts accelerate chronic ulcer healing: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

A prominent role of hair follicle-derived cells in epidermal wound closure is now well established but clinical translation of basic research findings is scarce. Although skin punch grafts have been used as a therapeutic intervention to improve healing of chronic leg ulcers, they are normally harvested from nonhairy areas, thus not taking advantage of the reported role of the hair follicle as a wound-healing promoter.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to substantiate the role of hair follicles in venous leg ulcer healing by transplanting hair follicle-containing versus nonhairy punch grafts.

METHODS

This was a randomized controlled trial with intraindividual comparison of hair follicle scalp grafts and nonhairy skin grafts transplanted in parallel into 2 halves of the same ulcer.

RESULTS

Ulcer healing measured as the average percentage reduction 18 weeks postintervention was significantly increased (P = .002) in the hair follicle group with a 75.15% (SD 23.03) ulcer area reduction compared with 33.07% (SD 46.17) in the control group (nonhairy grafts).

LIMITATIONS

Sample size was small (n = 12).

CONCLUSION

Autologous transplantation of terminal hair follicles by scalp punch grafts induces better healing than punch grafts harvested from nonhairy areas. Hair punch grafting is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that appears to be effective as a therapeutic tool for chronic venous leg ulcers.

A prospective analysis of pinch grafting of chronic leg ulcers in a series of elderly patients in rural Cameroon

BACKGROUND

Chronic leg ulcers (CLUs) pose serious public health concerns worldwide. They mainly affect the elderly population. Pinch grafting (PG) could be used to treat a variety of CLUs. However, in Cameroon, there is scarce data on the outcome of PG of CLUs in elderly patients in rural hospitals where most of these patients seek for medical attention and where clinicians rely on unconventional wound dressing methods to treat CLUs. Our objective was to describe the outcome of PG of CLUs in elderly patients in rural Cameroon.

METHODS

This was a prospective study conducted in a rural hospital of North West Cameroon. From February 2015 to January 2016, comprehensive historical and clinical data were collected per elderly patient who presented with a chronic leg ulcer necessitating PG. PG was done using a simple procedure and each patient followed up for 8 months. Outcome was described in terms of ulcer healing and pain and donor site complications.

RESULTS

Our series included 13 patients: 8 males (61.54%; 95% CI: 31.58-86.14) and 5 females (38.46%; 95% CI: 13.86-68.42) aged from 69 to 88 years (mean: 77.54 ± 5.70 years). Three patients (23.08%; 95% CI: 5.04-53.81) had associated co-morbidities. All the ulcers were unilateral with durations ranging from 7 to 41 months (mean: 19.46 ± 11.03 months). The ulcers ranged in size from 9.0 to 38.1 cm2 (mean: 17.66 ± 8.35 cm 2). We registered one (7.69%; 95% CI: 0.19-36.03) graft rejection. Concerning the other ulcers, ten (83.33%; 95% CI: 51.59-97.91) had healed after 12 postoperative weeks while 2 (16.67%; 95% CI: 2.09%-48.41) had healed after 14 postoperative weeks and the mean healing time was 12.33 ± 0.78 weeks. Patients with healed ulcers had reduced ulcer site pain from the immediate postoperative period but there was no significant difference in the mean pain scores before and after graft (6.77 against 4.23, p = 0.13). These ulcers remained healed after 8 postoperative months. Each donor site had healed 2 weeks after PG. Donor site problems were minimal and included hypopigmentation.

CONCLUSION

The outcome of PG of CLUs in our series of older patients was satisfactory. This finding does not discount the role of conservative therapy, but we encourage clinicians in rural Cameroon to consider PG over long-term unconventional conservative therapy in the elderly.

Skin grafting for the treatment of chronic leg ulcers - a systematic review in evidence-based medicine

Skin grafting is one of the most common surgical procedures in the area of non-healing wounds by which skin or a skin substitute is placed over a wound to replace and regenerate the damaged skin. Chronic leg ulcers are an important problem and a major source of expense for Western countries and for which many different forms of treatment have been used. Skin grafting is a method of treatment that decreases the area of chronic leg ulcers or heals them completely, thus improving a patient's quality of life. Skin grafting is an old technique, rediscovered during the first and second world wars as the main treatment for wound closure. Nowadays, skin grafting has a pivotal role in the context of modern wound healing and tissue regeneration. The aim of this review was to track and to analyse the specific outcomes this technique achieved, especially in the last decade, in relation to venous, arterial, diabetic, rheumatoid and traumatic leg ulcers. Our main findings indicate that autologous split-thickness skin grafting still remains the gold standard in terms of safety and efficacy for chronic leg ulcers; skin grafting procedures have greater success rates in chronic venous leg ulcers compared to other types of chronic leg ulcers; skin tissue engineering, also supported by genetic manipulation, is quickly expanding and, in the near future, may provide even better outcomes in the area of treatments for long-lasting chronic wounds.

A Giant Basal Cell Carcinoma Misdiagnosed and Mistreated as a Chronic Venous Ulcer

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common cutaneous malignancy. Giant BCCs are quite rare. They can cause extensive local invasion, disfigurement, and metastasis. We present a case of a 58-year-old woman with an unrecognized and inadequately treated ulcerated giant BCC sized 12.5 × 10.0 cm that occurred on her left lower leg without any sign of metastasis. Neglect and inadequate treatment of the primary lesion are the most important contributing factors responsible for size in giant BCC.

Wound Closure in Smoking Peripheral Arterial Disease Patients With Treatment-Refractory Ulcerations: A 12-Month Follow-up Case Series

Despite ongoing smoking cessation efforts and optimized perfusion, failed wound closure in the presence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and diabetes are common. A clinical effectiveness review was conducted in actively smoking diabetic patients diagnosed with PAD, treated with serial applications of a viable intact cryopreserved human placental membrane (vCPM) (Grafix, Osiris Therapeutics Inc, Columbia, MD) for recalcitrant lower extremity ulcerations (n = 6). More than half of the patients were not candidates for revascularization. Baseline vascular status in 5 of 6 lower-extremity wounds remained unchanged throughout the entire course of vCPM treatment. Daily cigarette consumption averaged 18 cigarettes per patient. Mean wound duration and mean surface area was 53 weeks and 4.6 cm2, respectively. Mean number of vCPM applications and time to closure was 7.0 grafts in 7.8 weeks. There were no wound-related infections or amputations and no vCPM-related adverse events. All 6 wounds remained closed at the 12-month follow-up visit. In conclusion, vCPM demonstrated clinically effective outcomes in 6 previously nonhealing ulcerations despite ongoing smoking habits in the presence of PAD and diabetes.

Unusual cause of lower extremity wounds: Cobb syndrome

Cobb syndrome (Cutaneomeningospinal Angiomatosis) is a rare segmental neurocutaneous syndrome associated with metameric cutaneous and spinal cord arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). In this syndrome, capillary malformation or angiokeratoma-like lesions are formed in a dermatomal distribution, with an AVM in the corresponding segment of the spinal cord. The spinal cord lesions can cause neurological disorder and paraplegia, which typically develop during young adulthood. We report a 32-year-old male with the Cobb syndrome associated with lower extremity painful wounds and acute-onset paraplegia due to metameric vascular malformations.

Evaluation of Early Surgical Treatment Results Considering Venous Leg Ulcers

Lower leg ulcers are characterized by a chronic and recurrent course, being considered as a difficult therapeutic problem. Based on epidemiological data chronic ulcers concern 0.2 to 2% of the Western European population. The above-mentioned problem affects women more often than men, and increases with age. Treatment and recurrence prevention methods remain under discussion and research. The aim of the study was to evaluate the early surgical treatment results of venous leg ulcers at the Department of Traumatology and Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Lublin.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We evaluated patients hospitalized at the Department of Traumatology and Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Lublin during the period between 2009-2014. Inclusion criteria were as follows: venous leg ulceration, full documentation. The study group comprised 62 patients subjected to treatment for leg ulcerations, including 35 women and 27 men, aged between 30 and 94 years. The treatment method included the excision of the ulcers with the deep fascia, and the implantation of the mesh graft (thickness of skin) directly into the exposed muscle.

RESULTS

Amongst patients evaluated at discharge, the healing of the transplant was as follows: in case of 44 patients 90-100%, in 8 patients - 75-89%, in 5 patients 50-74% and in 5 patients less than 50%. The predominating bacteria collected from ulceration samples was Pseudomonas aeruginosa (32%) and Staphylococcus aureus (35%).

CONCLUSIONS

The patient outcome shows that surgery is an effective method considering treatment of venous leg ulcers. Earlier qualification for this type of surgery will improve patient outcome.

Comparison of Computed Tomography Angiography to Contrast Arteriography for Patients Undergoing Evaluation for Lower Extremity Revascularization

In an effort to explore alternatives to contrast arteriography, we compared computed tomography angiography to contrast arteriography for defining anatomic features of patients undergoing lower extremity revascularization. From November 2003 to March 2004, 36 inpatients with chronic lower extremity ischemia underwent contrast arteriography and computed tomography angiography before undergoing lower extremity revascularization procedures. A Siemens 16 slice multiplanar computed tomography device with bolus tracking was used for these exams. The reports of these tests and images were compared prospectively, and the differences in the aorto-iliac segment, femoral-popliteal, and infrapopliteal segments were noted. The vessels were classified as mild disease (<50%), moderate disease (50%-70%), severe (71%-99%), and occluded. The studies and treatment plans based on these data were compared. The mean age was 76 ± 12 years (SD). Indications for the procedures included gangrene (45%), ischemic ulcer (32%), rest pain (19%), and severe claudication (3%); 69% were diabetics. Accuracy of computed tomography angiography in the aorto-iliac, femoral-popliteal, and infrapopliteal segments was 100%, 81%, and 59%, respectively. Thirteen of 18 (72%) of these disagreements resulted in a different procedure than that suggested by computed tomography angiography. A review of the data obtained in this series indicated that computed tomography angiography appears to be unable to obtain adequate information in this highly selected population at our institution.

Optimizing Skin Grafting Using Hair-derived Skin Grafts: The Healing Potential of Hair Follicle Pluripotent Stem Cells

BACKGROUND

A man in his 60s with recurrent venous leg ulcers (VLUs) presented with an 18-month history of a VLU on his medial left leg measuring 59.3 cm(2). He had been treated with multi- component compression bandages without significant decrease in ulcer size. Given the ulcer's size, refractory nature, and history of recurrence, the authors sought to optimize the patient's healing.

METHODS

Approximately 23% of the total wound was treated using punch grafts (PGs) harvested from different locations on the body based on hair density using the "stick and place" method.

RESULTS

One month later, a 56% reduction in ulcer size was observed, especially in the area that received hair-bearing skin.

CONCLUSION

Punch grafts from hair-bearing skin are a viable source of follicular stem cells and may be superior to PG from nonhair-bearing skin for the treatment of chronic wounds.

A Prospective, Postmarket, Compassionate Clinical Evaluation of a Novel Acellular Fish-skin Graft Which Contains Omega-3 Fatty Acids for the Closure of Hard-to-heal Lower Extremity Chronic Ulcers

INTRODUCTION

A novel piscine acellular fish-skin graft product has 510k clearance on the US market. This product (Omega3, Kerecis, Isafjordur, Iceland) is to be used similarly to extracellular matrices (ECMs) on the market (eg, bovine and porcine) except that it contains fats, including omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids that have been associated with anti-inflammatory properties in many studies. While many current ECMs are effective on open wounds, studies have largely excluded application to hard-to-heal ulcers. To test this product in a real-world environment, the authors chose to look specifically at hard-to-heal ulcers based on previously defined wound and patient factors.

METHODS

The primary objective was to assess the percentage of wound closure area from baseline after 5 weekly fish-skin graft applications in 18 patients with at least 1 "hard-to-heal" criteria. Patients underwent application of the fish skin for 5 sequential weeks, followed by 3 weeks of standard of care. Wound area, skin assessments, and pain were assessed weekly.

RESULTS

A 40% decrease in wound surface area (P < 0.05) and a 48% decrease in wound depth was seen with 5 weekly applications of the fish-skin graft and secondary dressing (P < 0.05). Complete closure was seen in 3 of 18 patients by the end of the study phase.

CONCLUSION

This fish-skin product appears to provide promise as an effective wound closing adjunctive ECM. This is true when used in this compassionate setting, where many other products fail. This study lacks a control arm and an aggressive application schedule, but the investigators believe it represents real-world practice.

Non-Islanded Distally Based Sural Artery Flap : A Reliable Solution for an Unreliable Flap

OBJECTIVE

To assess the reliability of non-islanded distally based sural artery flap, in terms of number of flap failure (partial and major flap necrosis), number of surgeries related to the problem for which flap surgery was performed, hospital stay and return to work, for coverage of soft tissue defects of the distal one-third of leg, ankle and heel.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY

Department of Plastic Surgery and Burn Unit, Mayo Hospital, KEMU, Lahore, Pakistan, from January 2003 to March 2014.

METHODOLOGY

Distally based sural artery flaps in 87 patients requiring coverage of distal lower lumb were studied, retrospectively. They were divided into two groups. G1 included 46 cases in which distally based sural artery flap was islanded. G2 included 41 cases in which flap was not islanded and pedicle was raised. The variables that were measured in two groups included age, gender, size and cause of defect, co-morbidities, number of surgeries, total hospital stay, return to work and flap related complications. Independent sample t-test and tests of proportions were used for comparison with significance at p &amp;lt; 0.05.

RESULTS

The mean age of patients was 38.4 &amp;plusmn;16.2 years in G1 and 35.1 &amp;plusmn;18.6 years in G2. In G1, 34 cases were traumatic, 5 caused by diabetic ulcers and another 7 cases were trophic ulcers in paraplegic patients caused by pressure sores. In G2, the cause was trauma in 32 cases, diabetic ulcers in 7 cases, trophic ulcers in 2 cases. The mean number of surgeries in G1 was 3 &amp;plusmn;1 and 2 &amp;plusmn;1 in G2 (p &amp;lt; 0.001). The mean hospital stay in G1 was 43.1 &amp;plusmn;3.6 days while 27.9 &amp;plusmn;2.1 days in G2 (p &amp;lt; 0.001). There was epidermolysis in 21 out of 46 islanded distally based sural artery flaps (G1) and in 9 out of 41 non-islanded flaps (G2) (p=0.0203). Partial necrosis occurred in 12 of flaps in G1 and in only 3 of G2 flaps (p=0.024).

CONCLUSION

Distally based sural artery flap can be made more reliable and with lesser complications by raising the pedicle with skin rather than islanding the flap.

Effectiveness of Autologous Stem Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Lower Extremity Ulcers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Primary studies in animal models and humans have suggested the therapeutic potential of autologous stem cell for treating chronic lower extremity ulcers. However, the results of pilot randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in humans have been inconsistent. A meta-analysis of RCTs was performed to evaluate the role of autologous stem cell-based therapy for lower extremity ulcers.Studies were identified during a systematic search of Medline, Embase, Cochrane's library, and references cited in related reviews and studies. Studies were included if they were RCTs published in English, recruited patients with lower extremity ulcers who were assigned to either a group for the topical therapy with autologous stem cells, and reported data regarding the healing of the ulcers.Relative risks (RRs) for healing rate and standardized mean differences (SMDs) for the changes in the mean sizes of ulcers were evaluated with a random-effects model. Overall, autologous stem cell-based therapy was associated with better healing of lower extremity ulcers (12 comparisons, 290 patients, RR for partial healing = 3.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.14-8.24, P = 0.03; RR for complete healing = 2.26, 95% CI = 1.48-3.16, P < 0.001) with little heterogeneity (I = 0%). Moreover, autologous stem cell-based therapy was associated with a greater reduction in mean ulcer size (SMD = -0.63, 95% CI = -1.03 to -0.22, P = 0.002). Subgroup analyses indicated that stem cells from peripheral blood and bone marrow seemed to exert similar beneficial effects on the healing of ulcers. Stem cell therapy was not associated with any increased risks for adverse events. The optimized sources, amounts, and delivery methods of stem cell -based therapy for patients with chronic lower extremity ulcers need to be determined, and the long-term effects of stem cell-based therapy on clinical outcomes need further exploration.Autologous stem cell-based therapy is effective and safe for improving the healing of chronic lower extremity ulcers and large-scale RCTs are needed to confirm our findings.

[SURGICAL EXPERIENCES IN THE TREATMENT OF ULCER COMPLICATIONS]

Lower leg ulcers have a high in incidence in general population and are associated with a significant morbidity rate. Wide differential diagnosis considering their etiology poses considerable problem, as the causes are diverse including metabolic, immune, oncologic, vascular and mixed ones. Approach to treatment should be multidisciplinary, and among various medical specialties surgery plays an important role. There are numerous efficient procedures that require proper indication to be successful. Along with reconstructive methods, there are complementary methods, mainly from the field of vascular surgery; when combined, they produce good results.

[EFFECTS OF INTERMITTENT IRRIGATION OF INSULIN SOLUTION COMBINED WITH CONTINUOUS DRAINAGE OF VACUUM SEALING DRAINAGE IN CHRONIC DIABETIC LOWER LIMB ULCERS]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of intermittent irrigation of insulin solution combined with continuous drainage of vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) in chronic diabetic lower limb ulcers.

METHODS

Between January 2012 and December 2014, 45 patients with diabetic lower limb ulcer were treated with VSD (group A, n=15), with VSD combining irrigation of normal saline (group B, n=15), and with VSD combining irrigation of insulin solution (group C, n=15) after debridement. There was no significant difference in gender, age, course of ulcers, area and depth of wound, glycosylated hemoglobin, and Wagner grade among 3 groups (P>0.05), and the data were comparable. The levels of fasting blood glucose, 2-hour postprandial blood glucose, and random blood glucose were determined everyday during treatment. The contents of insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1), tumor growth factor a (TNF-α), and nitric oxide (NO) in necrotic tissue after drainage were determined. The coverage rate and thickness of granulation tissue and clearance rate of bacteria in wound were calculated, the granulation tissue in the center of the wound was harvested for pathological observation with HE staining after 6 days of treatment. The second stage operation was performed according to the condition of wounds, and the time to the second stage operation and the method of the second stage operation were recorded and the survival rate of grafted skin or flap was calculated.

RESULTS

The pathological staining showed that there were a few new microvessels and fibroblasts in group A after treatment; more new microvessels and fibroblasts were observed in group B; and many new microvessels and fibroblasts were found in group C. There was no significant difference in levels of fasting blood glucose, 2-hour postprandial blood glucose, and random blood glucose among 3 groups during treatment (P > 0.05). The coverage rate and thickness of granulation tissue and clearance rate of bacteria in group C were significantly higher than those in groups A and B after treatment (P < 0.05). The contents of IGF-1 and NO were significantly increased and TNF-α was significantly decreased in group C when compared with those in group A (P < 0.05). Compared with group B, IGF-1 and NO contents were significantly increased at 3-6 days and at 2-6 days respectively, and TNF-α content was significantly decreased at 3-6 days in group C (P < 0.05). The method of the second stage operation showed no significant difference among 3 groups (χ2 = 2.920, P = 0.230), but the time to the second stage operation in group C was significantly shorter than that in groups A and B (P < 0.05), and the survival rate of grafted skin or flap in group C was significantly higher than that in groups A and B (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The treatment of diabetic lower limb ulcers with intermittent irrigation of insulin solution combined with continuous drainage of VSD can reduce inflammatory reaction effectively, promote development of granulation tissue, improve recovery function of tissue, increase the rate and speed of wound healing obviously, but it has no effect on blood glucose levels.

[Effects of vacuum sealing drainage combined with irrigation of oxygen loaded fluid on wounds of pa- tients with chronic venous leg ulcers]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the therapeutic effects of VSD combined with irrigation of oxygen loaded fluid on the growth of granulation tissue and macrophage polarization in chronic venous leg ulcers.

METHODS

Thiry-four patients with chronic venous leg ulcers hospitalized in our department from December 2010 to July 2014 were divided into VSD group ( A, n = 11) , VSD + irrigation group ( B, n = 11) , and VSD + oxygen loaded fluid irrigation group ( C, n = 12) according to the random number table. After admissian, debridement was performed, and granulation tissue in the center of the wound was harvested during the operation. After dehridement, the patients in group A were treated with VSD only (negative pressure from -30 to -25 kPa, the same below) ; the patients in group B were treated with VSD combining irrigation of normal saline; the patients in group C were treated with VSD combining normal saline loaded with oxygen irrigation (flow of 1 L/min) . On post treatment day (PTD) 7, the VSD devices were removed. Cross observation was conducted before debridement and on PTD 7. On PTD 7, the granulation tissue in the center of the wound was harvested for histopathological observation with HE staining and Masson staining, following calculation of granulation tissue coverage rate. After debridement but before the negative pressure therapy (hereinafter referred to as before treatment) and on PTD 7, partial pressure of oxygen of the skin around the wound was measured by transcutaneous tissue oxygen tension survey meter. On PTD 7, expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VECF) was determined with immunohistochemistry. Before treatment and on PTD 7, cells with double positive expressions of induced nitric oxide synthase plus CD68 ( type I macro- phage) and arginase 1 plus CD68 ( type II macrophage) were observed with immunofluorescence staining and quantified. Data were processed with Fisher's exact test, one-way analysis of variance, covariance analysis, paired test, and LSD test.

RESULTS

(1) The gross observation showed that before debridement there was a certain amount of necrotic tissue and little granulation tissue in the wounds of patients in all the 3 groups. On PTD 7, new granulation tissue was found in the wounds of patients in all the 3 groups, and in group C its amount was the largest. (2) On PTD 7, the granulation tissue coverage rate of wounds in pa- tients of group C was higher than that of group A or B ( P <0.05 or P <0.01). (3) On PTD 7, HE staining showed that there appeared more abundant new born microvessels and fibroblasts in the wounds of patients in group C than those in groups A and B; Masson staining showed that there was more abundant fresh collagen distributed orderly in the wounds of patients in group C compared with group A or B. (4) On PTD 7, it was found that partial pressure of oxygen of the skin around the wounds in patients of group C [(40.7 +/- 4.1) mmHg, 1 mmHg = 0.133 kPa] was higher than that of group A [ (35.0 +/- 3.1) mmHg] or B [(35.4 +/- 2.7) mmHg, with P values below 0.01]; the partial pressure of oxygen of the skin around the wounds of patients in all the 3 groups was increased significantly compared with that before treatment (with values from 10.38 to 22.52, P values below 0.01). (5) On PTD 7, the expression of VECF in the wounds of patients in group C was higher than that in group A or B ( P <0.05 or P < 0.01). (6) On PTD 7, the number of type I macrophages in granulation tissue of patients was respectively 14.3 +/- 2.3, 11.5 +/- 3.0, and 10.7 +/- 2.3 per 400 times vision field in groups A , B, and C ( F = 25.14, P < 0.01), while the number in group C was less than that in group A or B ( P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Compared with that before treatment, the number of type I macrophages was significantly decreased on PTD 7 in all the 3 groups (with values from 14.76 to 23. 73, P values below 0. 01). On PTD 7, the number of type II macrophages in granulation tissue of patients was respectively 32.7 +/- 3.2, 35.1 +/- 3.3 , and 41.3 +/- 3.2 per 400 times vision field in groups A, B, and C ( F = 81.10, P < 0.01), and the number in group C was lager than that in group A or B ( with P values below 0. 01). Compared with that before treatment, the number of type II macrophages in all the 3 groups was significantly increased (with t values from -69.34 to -47.95, P values below 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

VSD combined with irrigation of oxygen loaded fluid can raise the partial pressure of oxygen of the skin around the wounds effectively, promoting the transition of macrophages from type I to type II, thus it may promote the growth of granulation tissue, resulting in a better recipient for skin grafting or epithelization.

The Reverse Fasciocutaneous ALT Flap Harvested From Deeply Wounded and Scarred Area for Reconstruction of the Knee: A Case Report

Because of limited flap alternatives, soft tissue reconstruction over the knee is a challenging problem for reconstructive surgeons. When accompanied with surrounding tissue damage in major injuries, local flap alternatives are not available and reconstruction is more difficult. In this report, we present the first case in the literature of a patient who had reconstruction by the reverse fasciocutaneous anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap harvested from a deeply wounded and scarred area for soft tissue defect of knee region. It was shown that the ALT flap can be harvested from deeply wounded and scarred thigh and without any major complication and debulking procedure and that ideal cosmetic and functional results could be achieved.

[Optimizing the treatment procedure in crural ulcers - a pilot study of the surgical method]

INTRODUCTION

Current medical knowledge has provided us with a wide range of possibilities of treating chronic wounds. Over the recent decades, in particular, significant progress has been made in this field. The authors present an overview of current knowledge of chronic wound healing, pointing out the surgeons role in the process of chronic wound management. Using surgical therapy, we are able to heal a chronic wound in a shorter period of time, particularly if the treatment is accelerated by the application of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) as a source of growth factors.

METHODS

The pilot randomized prospective study included four patients with chronic wounds of the lower leg after previous failure of conservative therapy who were indicated for skin transplantation. Following previous vacuum-assisted closure therapy, the patients undergoing skin transplantation were prospectively randomized into two groups. Autologous PRP was used in one of the groups and standard skin transplantation without PRP was performed in the other one.

RESULTS

In the PRP group, 99% of the wound areas were healed on the 15th day after the operation. In the other group, 90% of the areas were healed on the 15th day following the operation. In the PRP group, complete healing of the defect occurred in both patients at 15 and 20 days post-surgery. In the second group, one patient completely healed within 28 days; the other one was not fully healed even at 3 months post-surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Most patient groups at great risk may benefit from the method using PRP, as well as patients with chronic wounds who have failed conventional methods available for both general and local therapy. This fact has been confirmed by the authors initial experience presented.Key words: platelet-rich plasma (PRP) - platelets wound healing chronic wound.

Squamous cell carcinoma developed on chronic venous leg ulcer

Chronic venous leg ulcers (VLU), especially long-lasting non-healing ulcers, are among the risk factors for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Malignant transformation of a VLU is a rare finding and the relative risk of carcinomatous transformation is quite low (about 5.8). SCC arising in the context of a VLU has a particularly aggressive behavior. A 76-year-old male patient with no relevant medical familial history, with chronic venous insufficiency CEAP C6 for 10 years [recurrent leg ulcers with favorable outcome (healing) after specific local and systemic treatment], showing for about three years one ulcerated lesion located on the anterior upper third of the right calf non-responsive to specific treatment, which subsequently increased their size and merged. Biopsy sample was taken. Histopathology showed epidermal acanthosis, papillomatosis, intense parakeratosis, pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia, dysplasia and moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma with areas of acantholysis. Immunohistochemistry (Ki67, EMA, cytokeratin 34βE12 and p63) was performed and all types of immunostaining were moderately to intense positive. Above-knee leg amputation and specific oncologic treatment were proposed as possible curative solutions but the patient refused. Ten months after diagnosis and discharge form the Department of Dermatology, the patient died. Patients with chronic venous leg ulcers and clinically suspicious lesions should be evaluated for malignant transformation of the venous lesion. When diagnosed, malignancy complicating a chronic venous leg ulcer requires a resolute treatment as it may be fatal.

[Effects of vacuum sealing drainage combined with irrigation of oxygen loaded fluid on chronic wounds in diabetic patients]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the therapeutic effects of VSD combined with irrigation of oxygen loaded fluid on chronic wounds in diabetic patients.

METHODS

Twenty-six diabetic patients hospitalized in Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University from September 2010 to June 2013, with chronic ulcers on lower extremities conforming to the inclusive criteria, were divided into group VSD (n = 8), VSD + irrigation control group (VSD + IC, n = 9), VSD + oxygen loaded fluid irrigation group (VSD OLI, n = 9) according to the random number table. After gross observation was conducted and wound secretion was sent for bacterial culturing right after admission, debridement was performed. During the debridement, granulation tissue of wound center was harvested for determination of the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) with ELISA. After debridement, the patients in group VSD were treated with VSD (negative pressure from -30 to -25 kPa, the same below); the patients in group VSD + IC were treated with VSD combining irrigation of normal saline; the patients in group VSD + OLI were treated with VSD combining normal saline loaded with oxygen (flow of 1 L/min ) irrigation. Drainage tube blockage was recorded and its incidence rate was recorded during the treatment. On post treatment day (PTD) 7, tissue exudates were collected and analyzed with blood gas analyzer for determining the partial pressure of oxygen of the exudate. After the VSD was terminated, bacterial culture was conducted as before, and the bacterial clearance rate was calculated. After the calculation of granulation tissue coverage rate, the granulation tissue in the center of the wound was harvested for histopathological observation with HE staining; morphological characteristics and density of mitochondria were observed with transmission electron microscopy; the activity of LDH and SDH was estimated as before; microvascular density (MVD) was counted after CD31 antibody immunohistochemical staining. Then the second stage operation was performed. The method of second stage operation was recorded and survival rate of grafted skin or flap was calculated. Data were processed with one-way analysis of variance, LSD- t test, rank sum test, or Fisher's exact test.

RESULTS

(1) The gross observation showed that before debridement there was only necrotic tissue without granulation tissue in the wounds of patients in all the 3 groups. On PTD 7, granulation tissue was found in the wounds of patients in all the 3 groups. HE staining showed that there were more abundant newborn microvessels and regularly arranged fibroblasts in the wounds of group VSD + OLI; less newborn microvessels and relatively sparsely fibroblasts were observed in the wounds of group VSD + IC. There were only sparse newborn microvessels and fibroblasts in the wounds of group VSD. (2) Rates of drainage tube blockage, granulation tissue coverage, and bacterial clearance showed significant differences among the 3 groups (with F values from 10.98 to 770.24, P values below 0.01). The drainage tube blockage rate was significantly lower in groups VSD + IC and VSD + OLI [(2.0 ± 0.4)% and (1.9 ± 0.6)%] than in group VSD [(16.0 ± 1.3)%, with t values respectively 28.77 and 29.20, P values below 0.01]. (3) On PTD 7, the partial pressure values of oxygen of the exudate in groups VSD + IC, VSD + OLI, and VSD were respectively (111 ± 4), (43 ± 4), and (40 ± 4) mmHg (1 mmHg = 0.133 kPa, F = 882.76, P < 0.01). (4) The density of mitochondria in group VSD + OLI was obviously higher than that of the other 2 groups, full in shape, with complete outer membrane and no vacuolization. (5) During debridement, the activity of LDH and SDH in 3 groups showed no significant differences (with F values respectively 0.08 and 1.03, P values above 0.05). On PTD 7, the activity of LDH was lower in group VSD + OLI [(103 ± 15) U/L] than in group VSD + IC [(136 ± 16) U/L, t = 4.49, P < 0.01], while it was higher in group VSD [(155 ± 16) U/L] than in group VSD + IC (t = 2.47, P < 0.05). The activity of SDH was higher in group VSD + OLI [(2.93 ± 0.27) U/L] than that in group VSD + IC [(1.77 ± 0.22) U/L] or group VSD [(1.61 ± 0.19) U/L, with t values respectively 10.21 and 11.65, P values below 0.01]. (6) On PTD 7, there was more positive expression of CD31 in group VSD + OLI than in the other 2 groups. The MVD of groups VSD, VSD + IC, and VSD + OLI were respectively (109 ± 5), (124 ± 5), (141 ± 6) per 400 times visual field (F = 68.78, P < 0.01). (7) The patients in 3 groups mainly received skin or flap grafting as the second stage operation. The survival rates of skin and flap in group VSD + OLI were higher than those of groups VSD + IC and VSD (with t values from 3.32 to 8.26, P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), and the rates were higher in group VSD + IC than in group VSD (with t values respectively 2.67 and 3.18, P values below 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

VSD + OLI is effective in reducing drainage tube blockage, removing necrotic tissue and bacteria, ameliorating ischemia and hypoxia of wound tissue, providing fresh wound bed for wound healing, and improving skin or flap graft survival rates.