Comparative evaluation of hydrogel dressing with conventional dressing in diabetic foot ulcers

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic foot is a common problem in this part of the country. In patients with diabetic foot and pressure ulcers, early intervention with biological therapy will either halt progression or result in rapid healing of these chronic wounds. So here we compare the effectiveness of hydrogel dressing versus conventional dressings in the healing of diabetic foot ulcerations in terms of healing rate, safety, and patient satisfaction. Material and methods: Prospective case-control study enrolling 40 patients, divided into two groups. Cases (patients treated with hydrogel) and Controls (patients treated with conventional dressings), with an equal number of patients in each group over 12 months period. Diabetic foots were treated until wound closure, either spontaneously, surgically, or until completion of the 8-week period. Result: 85% study and 90% control group patients were between the age of 41-70 years. Male to female ratio in study group and control group was 2.33:1 and 4:1 respectively. Duration of stay, amputation rates were statistically significantly reduced as compared to control and after 8 weeks of dressing. In study group complete responders were 80% and in control group 30% patients were complete responders. Conclusion: Hydrogel dressings appear to be more effective, safe, and patient satisfactory compared to conventional dressings for the treatment of Diabetic foot.