Use of Super-Absorbent Dressings and Compression in the Management of Highly Exudative Bilateral Venous Stasis Ulcers

Venous ulcers, a common type of lower extremity ulcers, can affect up to 3% of the United States population.1 These ulcers can be difficult to heal and may recur in 60%-70% of patients.2 Difficulties in venous stasis ulcer treatment include exudate and pain management. We present our experience using super-absorbent dressings* and compression therapy in the management of one patient with extensive bilateral venous stasis ulcers present for over 3 years. The 54-year-old male presented for care extensive exudate. Patient medical history included obesity, diabetes mellitus, chronic pain, and chronic opioid use. Previous treatments included split-thickness skin grafts and allografts. Due to the chronic pain, the patient refused hospitalization, excisional debridement, and use of negative pressure wound therapy. A treatment plan of biweekly hydro-mechanical debridement, iodine dressings and antimicrobial foam were implemented to remove slough and manage bioburden. After 3 months, bioburden was reduced, and the treatment focus switched to exudate management. Super-absorbent dressings with compression therapy were applied to both legs. Dressing changes occurred every 2-3 days. Over the next 6-months, exudate levels decreased and healthy granulation tissue was observed in the bilateral wounds. The patient was able to tolerate the use of super-absorbent dressings and compression therapy with minimal pain, resulting in improved wound bed appearance and reduced exudate levels in both leg wounds.

Trademarked Items (if applicable): *KERRAMAX CARE™ Super-Absorbent Dressing (Systagenix Wound Management Ltd, Knutsford, UK)

References (if applicable): 1. Bonkemeyer Millan S, Gan R, Townsend PE. Venous ulcers: diagnosis and treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2019;100(5):298-305.
2. Parker CN, Finlayson KJ, Edwards HE. Predicting the likelihood of delayed venous leg ulcer healing and recurrences: development and reliability testing of risk assessment. Ostomy Wound Manage. 2017;63(10):16-33.