Washington, Aug 3 (Inditop.com) Foot complications, such as open wounds, can be difficult to treat or heal. However, a study has revealed that a new dressing powder, which acts exactly like a layer of skin, is cutting down healing time and reducing the quantum of pain ensuing from serious foot ulcers.
“This new powder comes together, in an amazing flexible film that mimics the wound’s surface and helps it to retain moisture and protect the wound, but still allows the right amount of air flow needed for the wound to close,” said study co-author Tracey Vlahovic, Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine (TUSPM).
This wound powder is especially promising for the nearly 24 million Americans diagnosed with diabetes, where diabetic foot ulcers are the leading cause of non-traumatic, lower-limb amputations.
This powder’s successful treatment of difficult foot wounds could potentially lead to a reduction in amputation rates.
In a recent American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) survey, 18 percent with diabetes reported that they had experienced a foot sore that would not heal.
This includes open sores on the feet as a result of inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes or skin cancer.
The study focused on atypical wounds with irregular shapes and causes. The wounds were treated with the powder dressing once a week for four to eight weeks.
The study ultimately showed that the powder dressing provided a painless, efficient, and protective treatment that assisted in closing the wound.
The powder also helped in preparing the wound for further interventions that are sometimes needed, including options like skin grafts.
These results were presented at the APMA’s 97th Annual Scientific Meeting in Toronto July 30-Aug 2.
