Effectiveness of topical application of amino acids to chronic wounds: a prospective observational study.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate whether the topical application of an amino acid dressing, Vulnamin, aids the management of chronic wounds.


METHODS
A total of 160 patients with non-infected cutaneous chronic wounds were recruited. Before treatment, wound size was assessed using digital planimetry. Treatment lasted for a maximum of six weeks. Wound area measurements were repeated two and six weeks after starting treatment.


RESULTS
There was a significant reduction in the mean wound area after two weeks (7.4 +/- 8.7cm2) and six weeks (4.6 +/- 6.3cm2) of treatment, when compared with baseline (11.2 +/- 12.1cm2, p<0.01). At the final follow up, 23% of patients (n=36) healed and 34% (n=54) achieved a greater than 60% reduction in wound size. Seventy-six per cent (n=120) achieved positive outcomes (defined as a greater than 40% reduction in the ulcer size).


CONCLUSIONS
Although further investigations on the potential effects of this product on chronic wound healing are required, these data suggest it may promote healing in venous, pressure and diabetic ulcers.
Cassino
R
R
Critical Wounds Unit, San Luca Clinic, Pecetto Torinese, Turin, Italy. cassino@vulnera.it
Ricci
E
E
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000596:Amino Acids / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000191:economics; D001458:Bandages / Q000191:economics; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D005260:Female; D017048:Health Care Costs; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012883:Skin Ulcer / Q000191:economics / Q000628:therapy*; D014945:Wound Healing
D000596:Amino Acids