Wound piercing: a novel approach for deep cutaneous ulcer cleansing

Area of Science:

• Surgical Innovation
• Wound Healing
• Infectious Disease Management

Background:

• Deep and complicated cutaneous ulcers require effective management to prevent complications.
• Fluid and exudate stasis can impede healing and promote infection in complex wounds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel surgical procedure for treating deep and complicated cutaneous ulcers.
• To evaluate the efficacy of ulcer piercing and drainage in managing complex wound healing.

Main Methods:

• A surgical technique involving ulcer piercing and silastic tube drainage was developed.
• The procedure allows continuous or daily cleansing via positive pressure irrigation of hidden tracts.
• The technique was applied to 11 patients with diverse deep ulcer types, including sacral pressure ulcers, leg ulcers, perianal fistulas, and surgical wound dehiscence.

Main Results:

• Complete recovery of deep ulcer recesses was observed in all treated patients.
• Healing times ranged from 1.5 to 3.5 months, demonstrating the procedure's effectiveness.
• The ulcer piercing procedure facilitated successful management of complex wound anatomies.

Conclusions:

• The ulcer piercing and drainage procedure offers a safe and effective conservative approach for deep, complicated cutaneous ulcers.
• The technique avoids adverse side effects and contraindications, positioning it as a valuable treatment option.
• This method represents a significant advancement in managing challenging cutaneous ulcerations.