Dressing Methodology for Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Abstract

Introduction:Diabetic foot ulcer is a one of the most widespread complications encountered by physicians and Nurses following dressing methodology. Aims and Objectives: This study was done for evaluating the effect and efficacy of neem irrigation on wound healing outcome among patients with diabetic foot ulcers. Materials and Methods: A total of 22 patients were recruited in Sun Valley Hospital, Guwahati, India. The design of study was randomized single blinded 2 arm study. Out of 22 patients 11 were recruited in standard or active control arm under saline irrigation while 11 of them were recruited in treatment arm under neem irrigation. The follow up of standardized wound healing records were maintained till 4 th week from baseline. The Statistical analysis was done by independent ‗t' test at base line as four subsequent weeks. Paired ‗t' test was applied in each arm to investigate effect and efficacy of neem irrigation on wound healing outcome. The standardized effect size was also estimated by Cohen D to evaluate the efficacy. Results: The Pre score and week 1 score difference in control group (0.18±0.40) was insignificant, p=.167, D=0.45 while the same in treatment group (1.10±0.99) was significant, p=.007, D=1.11. The week 1 score and week 2 score disparity in control group (0.33±0.50) was insignificant, p=.081, D=0.67 whereas the same in treatment group (0.56±1.01) was insignificant, p=.139, D=0.55. Week 2 score and week -3 score variation in control group (1.00±1.22) was significant, p=.04, D=0.82 while the same in treatment group (2.33±1.86) was significant, p=.028, D=1.25. Conclusion: The treatment effect and efficacy of neem irrigation on wound healing among patients with diabetic foot ulcers was statistically non inferior in the pilot study and it hopes that it may prove statistical superiority when it is replicated in future which is in pipeline.