Practice Innovations
Retrospective chart review was performed of 6 patients who utilized polymeric membrane dressing for the treatment of wounds caused by venous insufficiency, surgical dehiscence, and missed arterial/ venous leg ulcers. Pain reduction, reduction in NVT, number of admissions in the 12 months prior to PMD treatment, number of admissions after PMD treatment, alternative therapies utilized, and cost of therapies were collected.
Results:
There was improvement in pain, NVT, and readmissions after initiation of the PMD. The cost savings was also proven while not sacrificing clinical outcomes. It was noted that once patient was discharged, patients were often switched to a different therapy (usually with silver) and had a return of the NVT, which suggests the PMD has ongoing actions for prevention of NVT build up as well.
Discussion:
While our institution noted a clinical improvement, there are continued challenges with continuity of care. Further research should be conducted to highlight the use of PMD to reduce pain during dressing changes and investigate the capacity for removal of NVT.