Effect of bacteriological status on pressure ulcer healing in patients with advanced cancer.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to identify the quantitative and qualitative bacteriological status of pressure ulcers in patients with advanced cancer, and the effects on the healing process.

METHOD

We recruited 34 patients with advanced cancer who had 38 superficial grade II and III pressure ulcers. Patients were randomly allocated to treatment with Lyofoam/polyurethane foam dressing (Seton) or Aquagel/hydrogel dressing (Wytw.Opatrunków). Efficacy, treatment times and healing rates were noted. Qualitative studies were undertaken on 38 pressure ulcers and quantitative bacteriological studies on 19 ulcers.

RESULTS

There was no statistical difference between the two treatment groups in efficacy, healing rates and treatment times. Bacteriological assessment identified 92 species.

CONCLUSION

The bacteria did not cause any clinical signs of infection. Variations in the number and types of bacteria in individual wounds did not correlate to the grade of ulcer or the dressing used.