Simple and Effective Approach for Wound-Bed Preparation by Topical Citric Acid Application
Summary: This empirical study evaluated the use of 2% citric acid ointment for wound-bed preparation in chronic wounds that failed to respond to conventional therapies. The approach aimed to control infection and promote healthy granulation tissue, enabling grafting or secondary healing.
Key Highlights:
- Study design: 24 patients with chronic wounds lasting more than 3 weeks and large raw areas unresponsive to standard care.
- Treatment: Application of 2% citric acid ointment.
- Microbiology: 32 bacterial strains were isolated—most commonly Staphylococcus aureus (37.5%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (25.0%). Many strains were resistant to multiple antibiotics.
- Outcome: Healthy granulation tissue suitable for split-thickness skin grafting or healing by secondary intention developed in all cases.
- Effectiveness: Results achieved after 3 to 20 applications of citric acid ointment.
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Keywords:
citric acid,
chronic wounds,
wound bed preparation,
granulation tissue,
Staphylococcus aureus,
Pseudomonas aeruginosa