Clinical research on the bio-debridement effect of maggot therapy for treatment of chronically infected lesions.

Abstract

To evaluate the bio-debridement effect of maggot therapy for treating chronically infected lesions. A retrospective study was conducted of 25 patients with diabetic foot ulcers and 18 patients with pressure ulcers after spinal cord injury treated by maggot therapy or traditional dressing. Changes in the lesions were observed and bacterial cultures tested. All ulcers healed completely. The times taken to achieve bacterial negativity, granulation and healing of lesions were all significantly shorter in the maggot therapy group than in the control group, both for diabetic foot ulcers (P < 0.05) and pressure ulcers (P < 0.05). Maggot therapy is a safe and effective method for treating chronically infected lesions. © 2010 Tianjin Hospital and Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.