Unexpected economics of ulcer care protocols.
The cost of managing chronic ulcers, both venous leg and decubiti (sacral pressure), was reviewed using 36 randomized, controlled studies with a focus on saline, hydrocolloid, and a human skin construct. When one includes the labor intensiveness of dressing changes three to four times per day, the application of hydrocolloid dressings becomes the most cost-effective.
Veterans Affairs Medical and Regional Office Center, Wilmington, DE, USA. LK1122@prodigy.net
Morris D
MD
Kerstein
D001458:Bandages / Q000191:economics*; D047070:Bandages, Hydrocolloid; D003102:Colloids / Q000191:economics*; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007871:Leg Ulcer / Q000191:economics* / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000191:economics* / Q000628:therapy; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D016038:Skin Transplantation / Q000191:economics*
D003102:Colloids