Efficacious use of a Calgigraf Ag foam dressing in complete healing of a difficult-to-heal, long-standing ulcer of osteoradionecrosis

Abstract

A number of dressings containing silver have been recently introduced into the wound care market as increased resistance to antibiotics has become a problem in treating infected wounds. A 54-year-old male, with adenoid cystic carcinoma treated by segmental resection and reconstruction of mandible using reconstruction plate with concomitant radiotherapy, resulted in a deep extraoral nonhealing necrotic, exuding, malodorous, and painful wound. Erythema, eczema, and trophic changes were surrounding the skin. Previous treatment was removal of exposed reconstruction plate and primary closure. Culture samples reported methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus positive and sensitivity to linezolid. Repeated failed attempts to approximate the wound, prompted the use of Calgigraf Ag foam as dressing for the wound. Evidence of new tissue growth and subsequent reduction in wound area and exudate were significant. Chronic nonhealing wounds involving progressive tissue loss give rise to the biggest challenge to wound-care researchers. Despite proper care, some wounds fail to heal in normally and become chronic. The use of ionic silver with negative pressure therapy is safe and effective in difficult nonhealing wounds. This case illustrates the potential benefit of ionic silver combined with negative pressure and moist wound healing as management of a patient with long-standing, nonhealing, and osteoradionecrosis wound. Calgigraf Ag Foam a silver alginate dressing is optimal for maintaining moist environment vital to promote wound healing. It needs less frequent dressing changes with additional benefits such management of excessive exudate minimising malodour and maintaining a moist wound environment.