What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a systematic review to develop an S3 guideline for the local treatment of chronic wounds, analyzing 4998 references including 38 randomized controlled trials and 26 systematic reviews.
What They Found
The guideline produced seven evidence-based recommendations and 30 good clinical practice recommendations. Evidence-based recommendations supported hydrogel, hyperbaric oxygenation, and integrated care, while advising against medicinal honey and growth factors.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Canadian patients with chronic wounds, particularly those related to diabetes, venous insufficiency, or arterial perfusion, may benefit from treatments like hydrogel, hyperbaric oxygenation, and integrated care. Conversely, treatments such as medicinal honey and growth factors may not be effective and should be avoided for these conditions.
Canadian Relevance
This systematic review and guideline was developed in Germany by German medical societies and patient representatives, with no direct Canadian connection.
Study Limitations
The applicability of these guideline recommendations may be limited by the quality and heterogeneity of the primary studies included in the review.