Case Series/Study
Hard-to-heal wounds have a very prolonged healing process, delaying closure, directly interfering with the patient's quality of life. These wounds are characterized by a prolonged inflammatory phase, with elevated metalloproteinases, destruction of the extracellular matrix and delayed formation of epithelial tissue. The use of a bio-cellulose membrane, with the ability to mimic the extracellular matrix, can reduce closure time and associated costs in these wounds.
Methods:
Application of bio-cellulose membrane in hard-to-heal wounds, in patients with surgical wound dehiscence and complex wounds of venous etiology. Used in 10 patients with more than 8 weeks of treatment, without infected wound, with an average rate of closure in 10 days, without complications and without recurrence.
Results:
This membrane was used in wounds with a bed covered in granulation tissue, but with very slow evolution, with the risk of regression. It was applied without inflammatory signs and serous exudate, flat edges. Treatment was carried out every 4 days, with one patient only needing one treatment and another 4 treatments, with an average of 2 for each patient. After closure there was no recurrence and the scar presented high level of quality and funcionality.
Discussion:
The use of bio-cellulose membrane had a significant effect on patient care. No pain or allergic reaction to the components of this material was reported. The quality of the scar is significant, being very functional and not presenting tissue fragility. The costs associated with treating these injuries were reduced with faster closure, increasing the patient's quality of life.