Randomized control of extracorporeal shock wave therapy versus placebo for chronic decubitus ulceration.
OBJECTIVE
To assess whether extracorporeal shock wave therapy increases the rate of healing in chronic decubitus ulceration.


METHODS
Double-blind randomized cross-over study.


METHODS
A large, long-stay hospital specializing in the management of people with complex neurological disabilities.


METHODS
The total population of available patients with chronic neurological conditions and chronic decubitus ulceration who met the inclusion criteria.


METHODS
Ulcers were randomized into receiving either the extracorporeal shock wave therapy or the placebo for a four-week period, followed by a two-week 'washout' period followed by a four-week period of the cross-over treatment/ placebo.


METHODS
Measurement of the area of the ulceration. For each observation the average of three measurements were taken.


RESULTS
Nine ulcers (in eight patients) were included in the study: five on the buttocks/sacrum/trochanter and four on the feet/ankles. All those with static chronic ulcers showed improved healing starting 6-8 weeks after the start of extracorporeal shock wave therapy, whether treated first with the placebo or the therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy has a potential part to play in the treatment of chronic skin ulceration.
Institute of Neuropalliative Rehabilitation, Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability, West Hill, Putney, London, UK.
Anna M
AM
Larking
Sophie
S
Duport
Michael
M
Clinton
Mary
M
Hardy
Keith
K
Andrews
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002908:Chronic Disease; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D005260:Female; D019220:High-Energy Shock Waves / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010919:Placebos; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000628:therapy*
D010919:Placebos