INFECTIONS MANAGEMENT IN VENOUS LEG ULCERS: A SINGLE CENTER EXPERIENCE

Abstract

Objectives. Chronic wounds have a prolonged period of healing due to numerous factors, including infections. Venous ulcers represent almost 80% of the lower extremity ulcerations, having a great impact on the patient's quality of life. The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of bacteria and the proper management in treating venous leg ulcers. Material and methods. The study enrolled ten patients with chronic venous leg ulcers hospitalized in the Plastic Surgery Department of the Emergency Clinical Hospital “Prof. Dr. Agrippa Ionescu”, during a period of six months. For each patient included in the study, we assessed the wounds culture and we started an antibiotic treatment, according to the antibiogram, which was completed by the surgical treatment of the wound. Outcomes. Venous leg ulcers had a favorable outcome after the administration of antibiotic therapy, surgical debridement of the wound and coverage with a skin graft. Conclusions. Venous ulcers may evolve over an extended period of time (weeks or years) and may also be associated with severe complications, such as cellulites or malignant transformation. Infections affect the healing process. Surgical debridement associated with systemic administration of antibiotics has a favorable outcome in the epithelialization of venous ulcers.

Keywords

• chronic wound
• venous leg ulcer
• bacteria
• antibiotic therapy