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Mucopolysaccharide polysulphate cream in the prevention of pressure sores--a double blind study
1Roihuvuori Nursing Home, Herttoniemi Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
Abstract:
Early pressure areas in 38 cases (33 patients) were randomly treated twice daily with topical applications of either mucopolysaccharide polysulphate (MPS) or the cream base. The patients were assessed weekly for 4 weeks, the main parameter being change in the area of the pressure area. In the MPS group a significant reduction in size was obtained during the 2nd week of treatment, while in the control group a significant reduction was not obtained until week 4. At the end of the treatment, 59% (10/17) of the MPS group were fully healed compared with 21% (4/19) of the control group, the difference being statistically significant, p less than 0.05. MPS resembles heparin chemically, and the results could be attributed to an improvement in the microcirculation and nutrition of the perivascular tissue through an inhibition of microthrombi and perivascular fibrin deposition.
Insights
Topical mucopolysaccharide polysulphate (MPS) significantly reduced pressure area size and improved healing rates compared to a cream base. This topical treatment offers a faster and more effective solution for pressure area management.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Wound Healing
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pressure areas represent a significant clinical challenge, impacting patient mobility and quality of life.
- Current treatments for pressure areas have variable efficacy, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of topical mucopolysaccharide polysulphate (MPS) in treating early-stage pressure areas.
- To compare the healing rates and reduction in size of pressure areas treated with MPS versus a cream base.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 38 cases (33 patients) with early pressure areas.
- Twice-daily topical application of either MPS or a cream base for 4 weeks.
- Weekly assessment of pressure area size as the primary outcome measure.
Main Results:
- The MPS group demonstrated a significant reduction in pressure area size by week 2, whereas the control group achieved this by week 4.
- Complete healing was observed in 59% of patients treated with MPS, compared to 21% in the control group (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Topical MPS is an effective treatment for early pressure areas, promoting faster healing and improved outcomes.
- MPS's chemical similarity to heparin suggests its efficacy may stem from improved microcirculation and reduced fibrin deposition.