Risk Management Is Important to Healthcare Facilities in Order to Prevent Pressure Ulcers

Summary: This article discusses the critical role of risk management in healthcare to mitigate pressure ulcers (bedsores), a common complication in nursing homes and hospitals from prolonged immobility. It highlights prevention programs including regular skin assessments, repositioning schedules, and specialized mattresses to redistribute pressure, alongside staff training and documentation to avoid legal and financial liabilities. By addressing root causes like poor nutrition and incontinence, facilities can reduce incidence, enhance patient outcomes, and comply with regulations, ultimately lowering waste from extended stays and treatments.

Key Highlights:

• Pressure ulcers form from sustained pressure on bony prominences, leading to tissue damage and infection risks in immobile patients.
• Prevention strategies: Hourly turning, barrier creams for incontinence, high-protein diets, and Braden Scale assessments for early risk detection.
• Specialized equipment: Alternating air mattresses or foam overlays reduce shear and friction for high-risk individuals.
• Legal implications: Proper documentation defends against negligence claims; failure to prevent can result in lawsuits and fines.
• Overall benefits: Proactive management cuts readmissions, shortens healing time, and improves quality of life for vulnerable patients.

Read full article

Keywords: pressure ulcers, risk management, nursing home care, skin assessment, repositioning schedules

Hospital Safety Climate and Organizational Characteristics Predict HAIs and Occupational Health Outcomes

Summary: This multi-site study reveals that a robust patient safety climate and adherence to standard precautions significantly reduce hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) like MRSA and CAUTI, as well as occupational exposures, explaining 23-43% of variance alongside factors like nurse staffing and Magnet status. Observed adherence is suboptimal at 64.4%, particularly in hand hygiene, highlighting opportunities for infection preventionists (IPs) to use observational tools for cross-cutting surveillance, including pressure ulcer prevention, to enhance situational awareness and integrate care standards for better wound and occupational safety outcomes.

Key Highlights:

• Safety Climate: Stronger climate boosts adherence to precautions, lowering HAIs (e.g., MRSA, CAUTI) and injuries (needlesticks, mucocutaneous).
• Adherence Gaps: 64.4% overall; role differences (e.g., nurses higher in hand hygiene); underreporting worsens trends.
• Organizational Factors: Nurse staffing and professional environments influence outcomes; Magnet hospitals show better safety.
• Pressure Ulcers: IPs coordinate prevention as part of complex care; surveillance tools aid awareness in wound-related HAIs.
• Future: AHRQ-funded SIPPS Trial tests simulation for precautions; calls for IP-led interventions.

Read full article

Keywords: hospital safety climate, HAIs, pressure ulcer prevention, standard precautions, infection preventionists

Diabetic Foot Care: New Tech & Preventing Amputations

Summary: With 1 in 5 diabetics facing foot ulcers and up to 20% leading to amputation (costing >$30,000/case), this article explores innovations like AI for early detection, bioengineered skin substitutes, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), phage therapy, and telehealth to improve outcomes and accessibility. Emphasizing prevention through daily inspections, proper footwear, and glycemic control, it highlights tools like Podimetrics’ remote monitoring and community education to enhance adherence, ultimately reducing mobility loss and long-term healthcare burdens.

Key Highlights:

• Stats: 15% lifetime DFU risk; 25-33% amputation rate; $9B+ annual U.S. cost.
• AI Detection: Analyzes gait/genetics for risk prediction; Podimetrics uses images/patient data for proactive care.
• Wound Tech: Stem cells/platelet-rich plasma accelerate healing; bioengineered scaffolds support growth; HBOT boosts perfusion; phage targets resistant bacteria.
• Telehealth: Remote consults cut amputations (e.g., VA programs); challenges: equity, privacy.
• Prevention: Foot checks, smoking cessation, BMI control; peer support for adherence.

Read full article

Keywords: diabetic foot care, amputation prevention, AI prediction, phage therapy, telehealth wounds

Science News: Atom Insights, Superbug Cure & Healing Advances – Oct 29, 2025

Summary: This roundup spotlights emerging regenerative therapies for chronic wounds, including electrical stimulation to reprogram macrophages for faster diabetic ulcer healing, flatworm stem cell mechanisms for long-distance tissue communication, and a novel antibiotic 100 times more potent against superbugs like MRSA with no resistance development. Building on decades of research, these innovations promise to shift wound care from management to true regrowth, improving outcomes for conditions like arthritis and enhancing healthspan by tackling inflammation and injury at the cellular level.

Key Highlights:

• Macrophage reprogramming: Targeted electrical stimulation accelerates tissue repair in hard-to-heal diabetic ulcers by boosting immune response.
• Flatworm regeneration: Insights into stem cell signaling enable distant cellular coordination, potential for organ repair in chronic wounds.
• Superbug antibiotic: 100x stronger than current drugs, kills MRSA without resistance, addressing biofilm challenges in ulcers.
• Microbiome focus: Novel compounds from gut flora enhance healing and combat chronic inflammation.
• Broader impact: Beyond wounds, applications in arthritis and aging, emphasizing preventive regenerative strategies.

Read full article

Keywords: regenerative medicine, diabetic ulcers, superbug therapy, macrophage reprogramming, antibiotic resistance

CAMPs Evidence Compendium 2025: Unifying Cellular, Acellular, and Matrix Products for Chronic Wound Care

Summary: This October 2025 compendium from the Journal of Wound Care consolidates evidence on Cellular, Acellular, and Matrix-like Products (CAMPs), including placental allografts and ECM scaffolds, for chronic wounds like DFUs, VLUs, and pressure ulcers. Featuring 40+ authors, it reviews RCTs, case series, and economic models showing 50-98% closure rates, 35-80% amputation reductions, and $170/pt savings, while addressing reimbursement caps and fraud. It advocates MDT integration, fixed-fee models ($400-704/cm²), and registries for standardized coverage, positioning CAMPs as early interventions to enhance granulation and prevent complications.

Key Highlights:

• Authors: 50+ experts, including William Tettelbach, Martha Kelso, David Armstrong; editorial team led by Shruti Kamath.
• Evidence: dACM RCT (50% closure vs 35% SOC); FT-DPM (48% vs 27%); carePATCH (77.4-100% PAR); overall 86% closure in series.
• Reimbursement: Proposes $400/cm² fixed fee for $2B savings; LCD limits (8 apps/16 wks) cause 30% failure; calls for AI oversight.
• Policy: National Coverage Determination for equity; registries for accountability; targets fraud without access barriers.
• Outcomes: QALY gains, fewer admissions; mechanisms: granulation promotion, infection control, ECM support.

Read full article

Keywords: CAMPs, placental allografts, chronic wounds, reimbursement policy, wound care evidence

The Skin-Substitute Debate: Balancing Access and Costs in Wound Care

Summary: Medicare’s skin substitute spending for chronic wounds is projected at $15B in 2025, up 50% from 2024, prompting a debate between ACOs alleging fraud/waste and manufacturers warning of access barriers. CMS proposes capping reimbursement at $125/cm² to curb $7.7B first-half spend, but the MASS Coalition argues it ignores root causes like promo and could drive $100B+ in hospital costs. With 25M affected Americans, the piece highlights calls for AI oversight, accreditation, and registries to protect evidence-based therapies like allografts for DFUs and VLUs.

Key Highlights:

Read full article

Keywords: skin substitutes, Medicare reimbursement, wound care policy, wasteful spending, DFU access

Lakewood-Amedex Biotherapeutics Announces Peer-Reviewed Publication Demonstrating Potent Antimicrobial Activity of Bisphosphocin® Class Against Resistant Pathogens

Summary: Lakewood-Amedex Biotherapeutics announces a peer-reviewed publication in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy detailing Bisphosphocin® Nu-3’s broad-spectrum activity against resistant pathogens, including MRSA, E. coli, Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, and Acinetobacter. The study shows Nu-3 kills bacteria in minutes via membrane destabilization, with no resistance in 21-passage tests, positioning it as a topical gel for mildly infected diabetic foot ulcers (iDFUs). With 13 million U.S. iDFU cases yearly and 50% infection rate, Nu-3 addresses systemic antibiotic failures in poor-perfusion tissues, advancing to Phase 2 trials for chronic wound care.

Key Highlights:

Read full article

Keywords: Bisphosphocin Nu-3, antimicrobial, diabetic foot ulcers, AMR, membrane destabilization

Early Clinical Experience with a Topical Desiccating Agent for Wound Bed Preparation in Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Summary: This retrospective case series evaluated a novel topical desiccating agent (TDA) under compassionate use for wound bed preparation in 67 patients with chronic diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) from 2020-2023. TDA facilitated debridement and granulation, achieving granulation in 88.1% (mean 44.3 days) and complete re-epithelialization in 85.1%, with no adverse events. The agent offers a safe, non-invasive option for high-risk cases, supporting further prospective validation for DFU protocols.

Key Highlights:

• Cohort: 67 adults with stalled DFUs; ethics-approved compassionate use.
• Granulation: 88.1% success; mean time 44.3 days to ready for grafting/closure.
• Healing: 85.1% full re-epithelialization; rapid progression post-TDA.
• Safety: No AEs; well-tolerated in diabetics.
• Implications: Chemical debridement adjunct; calls for RCTs.

Read full article

Keywords: topical desiccating agent, diabetic foot ulcers, wound bed preparation, granulation, chemical debridement

Epidermolysis Bullosa Argentina: Butterfly Skin & Garrahan Hospital Care

Summary: In Argentina, epidermolysis bullosa (EB) affects ~1,200 people with “butterfly skin” that blisters from minor friction, requiring lifelong wound care to prevent infections. Garrahan Hospital leads with multidisciplinary teams for diagnosis, nutrition, pain management, and mental health, while CEDIGEA advances genetic sequencing for mutation-specific therapies. Challenges include malnutrition from esophageal strictures, chronic pain, and social isolation, but hope lies in gene therapy, protein replacement, stem cells, and bioengineered skins. Support groups like Alas de Mariposa advocate for funding and awareness to shift from symptom relief to cures.

Key Highlights:

Read full article

Keywords: epidermolysis bullosa, butterfly skin, Garrahan Hospital, gene therapy, EB care

Technion Scientists Create Mollusk-Inspired Adhesive That Seals Wounds in Seconds

Summary: Researchers at Israel’s Technion have engineered a mussel-inspired bioadhesive that bonds tissues in seconds, even underwater, revolutionizing wound closure for chronic and surgical sites. Mimicking mussel foot proteins with catechol groups for wet adhesion and oxidized crosslinking, the gel forms a strong, flexible seal without sutures, promoting hemostasis and preventing infection. Tested on rat skin and liver models, it outperforms commercial glues in bond strength and biocompatibility, offering a non-invasive solution for diabetic ulcers, burns, and trauma wounds where traditional methods fail.

Key Highlights:

• Mechanism: Catechol oxidation creates covalent bonds for rapid curing (5-10 seconds) in moist environments.
• Materials: Biodegradable polymers with mussel-mimicking peptides; tunable viscosity for injection or spraying.
• Efficacy: 10x stronger adhesion than fibrin glues; full hemostasis in liver incisions; no inflammation in 7-day implants.
• Applications: Ideal for DFUs, internal bleeding, and minimally invasive surgery; scalable for clinical use.
• Future: Human trials planned; potential to reduce scarring and infection in chronic wound care.

Read full article

Keywords: mussel-inspired adhesive, instant wound sealant, catechol chemistry, biocompatible glue, Technion innovation

Kenya’s Wound Care Crisis and the Urgent Need for Early Intervention to Prevent Amputations

Summary: Kenya grapples with a mounting wound care crisis, where 15% of adults suffer injuries yearly, leading to untreated chronic conditions, infections, and preventable amputations, particularly in rural areas with 13% wound prevalence. Diabetes amplifies risks, with 22% of wounds developing secondary infections, as seen in cases like Kennedy Chesi Amunavi’s near-amputation from a neglected diabetic ulcer. Experts like Dr. Shilpa Mulki and Dr. Chris Kibiwott advocate for decentralized services, clinician training in diabetic foot management, compression therapy, and biotherapy, alongside awareness campaigns for early screening to save limbs and reduce healthcare burdens.

Key Highlights:

• Stats: 15% annual adult injuries; 4% from road crashes, 10.9% unintentional; rural 13% wound rate; 22% secondary infections.
• Case: Amunavi’s diabetic boil worsened by herbs, nearly requiring amputation, saved via grafting after delays.
• Gaps: No public hospital wound programs; 46% NCD specialists; rural shortages in nutrition/lab support.
• Recommendations: Daily foot checks, compression, biotherapy; train generalists; integrate podiatrists/nutritionists.
• Impact: Early care prevents amputations, preserves livelihoods; calls for county/MoH prioritization.

Read full article

Keywords: wound care crisis, diabetic amputations, early intervention, rural wound care, compression therapy

Thane Fisherman’s Hand Saved from Amputation After Rare Eel Fish Bite in Uttan

Summary: In a dramatic case at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, a 42-year-old fisherman, Sandip Bhoin, was rescued from limb-threatening infection after a rare double bite from an eel during a fishing trip at Uttan Beach. Arriving 17 hours later with a grossly swollen, pale hand lacking circulation and sensation, he was diagnosed with acute compartment syndrome. Led by Dr. Sushil Nehete, the surgical team performed an emergency fasciotomy to release pressure, restoring blood flow instantly. Post-op, ICU monitoring prevented kidney failure from metabolic waste, and he’s now on track for full recovery with skin grafting and physiotherapy, underscoring the critical role of prompt wound intervention in traumatic marine injuries.

Key Highlights:

• Incident: Eel bite caused deep lacerations and heavy bleeding; initial pressure bandage by peers delayed but helped temporarily.
• Symptoms on arrival: Excruciating pain, swelling, pallor, absent sensation—hallmarks of compartment syndrome obstructing blood flow.
• Surgery: Fasciotomy released forearm/carpal tunnel pressure; immediate circulation return with rapid sensation/movement improvement.
• Post-op: ICU averted renal complications; ongoing wound care, grafting, and physio for hand function restoration.
• Outcome: Hand saved from amputation; full recovery expected in months, emphasizing early referral for trauma wounds.

Read full article

Keywords: traumatic wound, compartment syndrome, fasciotomy, marine injury, wound infection

Hypoxia-Induced Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Regulate Macrophage Polarization and Enhance Angiogenesis to Promote Diabetic Wound Healing

Summary: Researchers engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs) from human umbilical cord MSCs under hypoxia and showed that these EVs boost fibroblast and endothelial function, activate HIF-1α–VEGFA signaling, promote M2 macrophage polarization, reduce ROS, and accelerate healing in a diabetic wound model.

Key Highlights:

• Hypoxia-induced EVs (hy-EVs) improved human skin fibroblast activity and endothelial proliferation/migration versus normoxic EVs.
• Evidence of angiogenesis via increased HIF-1α, VEGFA, and CD31 expression; aligns with enhanced neovascularization in vivo.
• Immunomodulation: hy-EVs shifted macrophages from M1 (CD86) to M2 (CD206), dampening inflammatory responses at the wound site.
• Reduced oxidative stress by inhibiting ROS in fibroblasts and endothelial cells.
• In diabetic wound models, hy-EVs increased collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and overall healing metrics.
• Authors propose hy-EV cargo (miRNAs/proteins) as a basis for next-gen EV therapeutics for chronic diabetic wounds.

Read full article

Keywords: extracellular vesicles, HUCMSC, hypoxia, HIF-1α, angiogenesis, macrophage polarization, reactive oxygen species, diabetic wound healing, Yongfeng Su, Junda Lu, Feiyuan Liang, Jianwen Cheng

The impact of PANoptosis-related genes on immune profiles and subtype classification in ischemic stroke

Summary: This open-access computational study profiles PANoptosis-related genes (integrating pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis) in ischemic stroke blood datasets to define diagnostic gene signatures and immune-infiltration subtypes. While not a wound-care trial, the work offers mechanistic insights into inflammatory cell-death pathways that may inform future translational research across ischemia-driven tissue injury and chronic wound inflammation.

Key Highlights:

• Analyzed GEO datasets (e.g., GSE58294) to identify differentially expressed PANoptosis-related genes and build diagnostic models (ROC performance reported).
• Constructed interaction networks (genes–miRNAs–TFs–drugs) and a nomogram to visualize diagnostic potential.
• Single-cell re-analysis (GSE174574) mapped candidate genes to immune-cell subpopulations relevant to post-ischemic inflammation.
• Unsupervised clustering defined two immune subtypes with distinct infiltration patterns and functional pathways.
• Authors suggest these signatures could guide early diagnosis and targeted therapies in ischemic stroke; pathways overlap with inflammation and cell-death mechanisms studied in chronic wounds.

Read full article

Keywords: PANoptosis, pyroptosis, apoptosis, necroptosis, ischemic stroke, bioinformatics, immune infiltration, biomarkers, Xinrui Cai, Yu Ren, Qin Yang

Molnlycke Health Care Expands Wound Care Manufacturing Facility

Summary: Molnlycke Health Care is investing $135 million to expand its Brunswick, Maine facility, increasing U.S. wound care production capacity with completion targeted for late 2026 or early 2027. The upgrade features advanced U.S.-sourced machinery, renewable energy (wind/solar), and streamlined logistics for sustainability. Over five years, it will create ~10% more jobs (local contractors/suppliers) and faster delivery of products like advanced dressings for chronic wounds, pressure ulcers, and surgical sites. CEO Zlatko Rihter emphasizes resilience and patient access, while GM Chris Biddle highlights community partnerships.

Key Highlights:

• Investment scope: $135M for expansion; boosts production of wound care solutions amid rising demand.
• Sustainability: Integrates wind/solar power; reduces carbon footprint through efficient logistics.
• Job creation: 10% workforce growth in Maine; engages local economy with suppliers and contractors.
• Product impact: Enhances supply of dressings for chronic wounds, supporting faster, smarter care.
• Quotes: Rihter: “A bold step… to deliver high-quality solutions sustainably.” Biddle: “A win for Molnlycke, community, and patients.”

Read full article

Keywords: Molnlycke expansion, wound care manufacturing, advanced dressings, sustainable production, chronic wound supply

From Webs to Wound Healing: ASU Scientists Harness Silk for Medical Innovation

Summary: Arizona State University researchers, led by Professors Jeff Yarger and Kaushal Rege, are pioneering silk proteins from silkworms and spiders for advanced wound healing, as detailed in ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering. Their laser-activated sealants (LASEs) embed gold nanorods or indocyanine green in silk fibroin matrices, enabling near-infrared laser-triggered heating to seal wounds in seconds—stronger than sutures while minimizing trauma. Versatile forms (fibers, hydrogels, sponges) loaded with antibiotics like vancomycin promote sustained release, biocompatibility, and biodegradation, targeting chronic wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers and pressure sores by enhancing tissue repair and infection prevention.

Key Highlights:

• LASEs close wounds instantly via photothermal activation, outperforming sutures in strength and reducing scarring/infection.
• Silkworm silk fibroin serves as biocompatible matrix; spider egg-case silk explored for tendon-like scaffolds due to superior toughness.
• Drug delivery: Sustained vancomycin release combats biofilms in chronic wounds; preclinical models confirm efficacy.
• Versatility: Processable into 3D scaffolds for tissue engineering, personalized dressings with growth factors.
• Future: Recombinant spider silk production to scale up; applications in DFUs, burns, and surgical sites for faster, safer healing.

Read full article

Keywords: spider silk, silk fibroin, laser-activated sealant, chronic wound healing, biodegradable scaffold

Prevention of Infection in Peripheral Arterial Reconstruction of the Lower Limb

Summary: This Cochrane review synthesizes evidence from 40 RCTs and quasi-RCTs involving 7970 participants on pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions to prevent infections after lower limb peripheral arterial reconstruction. Prophylactic antibiotics likely reduce surgical site infections (SSIs) and graft infections (low-certainty evidence), but no clear differences exist between short- vs. long-duration regimens or antibiotic types (very low-certainty). Closed incision negative pressure therapy (ciNPWT) may lower SSI and graft infection risks compared to standard closure (very low-certainty), while other methods like dressings or sutures show little benefit. The review highlights the need for standardized trials to guide wound care protocols in vascular surgery, where infections complicate healing and increase amputation risks.

Key Highlights:

• Antibiotics vs. none: Reduced SSIs (RR 0.20, 95% CI 0.11-0.34; NNT 9) and graft infections (RR 0.19, 95% CI 0.06-0.63; low-certainty).
• Short vs. long antibiotics: No difference in SSIs (RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.40-1.40) or graft infections (very low-certainty).
• ciNPWT vs. standard: Possible reduction in SSIs (RR 0.49, 95% CI 0.27-0.86) and graft infections (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.19-1.59; very low-certainty).
• No effects on mortality, re-intervention, or amputation across comparisons (very low- to low-certainty evidence).
• Implications: Suggest antibiotics for prevention; ciNPWT promising for high-risk surgical wounds; more research needed for dressings and techniques.

Read full article

Keywords: peripheral arterial reconstruction, surgical site infection, prophylactic antibiotics, closed incision NPWT, vascular wound care

The Trump Administration Must Protect Patient Access to Advanced Wound Care

Summary: This opinion piece by Martha Kelso and Rajendra S. Gogia criticizes the Trump administration’s proposed CMS rulemaking to slash reimbursement for advanced wound care therapies, arguing it threatens millions with chronic wounds by ignoring their evidence-based benefits in reducing infections, amputations, and costs. Affecting 25 million Americans (including 6.5 million at any time), these treatments—like bio-engineered substitutes and cellular products—shorten recovery and prevent complications, yet face arbitrary cuts amid fraud concerns. The authors call for smarter reforms: AI-aided billing, accreditation, national coverage determinations, and outcomes registries to balance costs with innovation, noting Trump’s own venous insufficiency as a personal stake in preserving access.

Key Highlights:

• Chronic wounds cost billions; advanced care saves money by avoiding hospitalizations/amputations, but proposed cuts risk exacerbating this.
• Misconceptions: Treatments aren’t wasteful; fraud should be tackled with AI verification, not blanket reductions punishing patients.
• Policy fixes: National Coverage Determination for uniform access; AI for medical necessity docs; provider accreditation; national registries for accountability.
• Patient impact: 15% of Medicare beneficiaries affected; delays in care lead to pain, disability, and higher long-term expenses.
• Personal note: Trump’s venous insufficiency highlights need; urges reversal to protect vulnerable populations.

Read full article

Keywords: advanced wound care, CMS reimbursement, chronic wounds, cellular products, wound care policy

BioLab Holdings Inc. Announces Multiple Clinical Trials to Advance Chronic Wound Care

Full Press Release:

Phoenix, AZ, October 22, 2025 – BioLab Holdings, Inc., a Phoenix-based medical manufacturer specializing in wound care solutions, announced the ongoing development of several clinical trials to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of its Cellular, Acellular, and Matrix-like Products (CAMPs) in covering and protecting non-healing wounds, including diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) and venous leg ulcers (VLUs). The trials are in response to mandates from the MAC region for robust data to support product efficacy for inclusion in the upcoming Local Coverage Determination (LCD), effective January 1, 2026, for DFUs and VLUs.

The trials include:

1. BIOCAMP Trial: A multicenter, prospective, randomized controlled study assessing human placental membrane products combined with standard of care (SOC) versus SOC alone for non-healing DFUs and VLUs. Preliminary data will be presented at the TRES conference on October 30, 2025.

2. CAMP RWE Trial: A multicenter hybrid platform study comparing tri-layer and single-layer amnion grafts to a matched retrospective control cohort for hard-to-heal DFUs and VLUs. The study will be submitted for publication with Dr. Windy Cole’s assistance.

3. Retrospective Study: A real-world data collection trial evaluating human amniotic membrane(s) on DFUs, VLUs, pressure ulcers, and post-operative wounds, corroborated by randomized controlled trials.

4. Meta Analyses & Mega Meta Analysis: BioLab is supporting meta-analyses by Serena Group, including a mega-meta-analysis, to demonstrate similar healing rates across membrane products regardless of brand.

5. LCD Timeline: The proposed LCD for DFUs and VLUs is effective January 1, 2026, with other wound types requiring standard care prior to use.

“These trials represent a significant step forward in providing the clinical evidence needed to ensure that our innovative wound care solutions are accessible to patients who need them most,” said BioLab CEO [Name not specified]. “We are committed to advancing the science of chronic wound management and improving outcomes for patients with DFUs and VLUs.”

About BioLab Holdings, Inc.

BioLab Holdings, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of advanced wound care products, specializing in human amniotic membrane allografts such as Membrane Wrap Lite™, Tri-Membrane Wrap™, Membrane Wrap™, and Membrane Wrap-Hydro™. These products are designed to support the healing of chronic and non-healing wounds, including DFUs, VLUs, pressure ulcers, and post-operative wounds.

For more information, visit www.biolabholdings.com.

Contact: [Contact info not specified]

Key Highlights:

• BIOCAMP Trial: Prospective RCT for placental membranes in DFUs/VLUs; preliminary data at TRES October 30, 2025.
• CAMP RWE Trial: Hybrid study comparing graft layers to controls; submission for publication with Dr. Windy Cole.
• Retrospective Study: Real-world data on amniotic membranes for multiple wound types, backed by RCTs.
• Meta-Analyses: Supported by Serena Group to show consistent healing across products for LCD inclusion.
• LCD Impact: Effective January 1, 2026 for DFUs/VLUs; aims to ensure coverage for BioLab’s allografts.

Read full article

Keywords: BioLab Holdings, amniotic membrane, diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, LCD coverage

Clinical Trial: Artacent Amniotic Tissue for Treatment of Chronic Lower Extremity Diabetic Ulcers

Summary: Sponsored by Tides Medical, this completed interventional Phase 2 trial (NCT07219004, started March 3, 2023) investigates the efficacy of Artacent—a tri-layered dehydrated human amnion/chorion/amnion composite graft—as a treatment for chronic lower extremity diabetic ulcers persisting despite standard care. Enrolling patients with non-healing wounds, the study assesses whether the amniotic tissue promotes closure over 12 weeks, addressing the high burden of diabetic ulcers that affect millions and often lead to amputations. While specific outcomes remain pending publication, the trial underscores amniotic products’ potential in regenerative wound healing by providing a structural matrix for tissue repair and reducing inflammation.

Key Highlights:

• Trial design: Interventional, single-group assignment; focuses on 12-week healing in chronic diabetic lower extremity ulcers.
• Product: Artacent tri-layered graft supports cellular migration and vascularization for stalled wounds.
• Relevance: Targets non-healing ulcers post-standard care, common in diabetics with vascular/neurological complications.
• Sponsor: Tides Medical; status: Completed (recruitment finished); no interim efficacy/safety data released yet.
• Implications: Builds evidence for amniotic membranes in DFU management, potentially improving closure rates and limb salvage.

Read full article

Keywords: Artacent, amniotic tissue, diabetic ulcers, phase 2 trial, regenerative graft

Nagaland University Researchers Find Plant Compound to Treat Diabetic Wound Foot Ulcers

Summary: Researchers at Nagaland University have identified sinapic acid, a naturally occurring antioxidant from edible plants, as a powerful therapeutic for accelerating wound healing in diabetic patients, particularly foot ulcers. Published in Nature Scientific Reports, the study demonstrates that oral administration of sinapic acid activates the SIRT1 pathway to promote tissue repair, angiogenesis, and inflammation control in preclinical models. Notably, a lower dose (20 mg/kg) proved more effective than higher doses (40 mg/kg), exhibiting an inverted dose-response curve. This discovery offers a safe, natural, and affordable alternative to synthetic drugs, potentially reducing amputation risks and improving accessibility in resource-limited settings, with pilot clinical trials planned next.

Key Highlights:

• Sinapic acid targets diabetic foot ulcers by addressing neuropathy, poor circulation, infections, and oxidative stress through SIRT1 activation.
• Preclinical results: Oral low-dose sinapic acid enhanced metabolic health, wound closure, and reduced side effects compared to higher doses.
• Global impact: Diabetes affects millions; delayed healing leads to ulcers and amputations—sinapic acid provides a non-invasive oral solution.
• Lead researcher: Prof. Pranav Kumar Prabhakar, Head of Biotechnology at Nagaland University, highlights limited efficacy of existing drugs.
• Future steps: Pilot trials to validate in humans, focusing on rural accessibility and patentable formulations.

Read full article

Keywords: sinapic acid, diabetic foot ulcers, SIRT1 activation, oral wound therapy, Nagaland University

Tips for Scalp Dressings: Securing Head Wounds Effectively

Summary: This practical guide from Wounds Africa tackles the unique challenges of dressing scalp wounds on hairy heads, where traditional bandages often slip or cause discomfort. Focusing on malignant wounds (e.g., basal/squamous cell carcinomas), actinic keratoses, burns, and trauma, it outlines eight alternative methods to ensure secure, comfortable coverage while preserving patient vanity and mobility. Techniques range from simple hair clips to advanced turban bandaging, emphasizing soft, non-irritating options like chemotherapy caps. Ideal for chronic or post-surgical care, these tips promote healing by maintaining consistent pressure relief and infection prevention without invasive fixation.

Key Highlights:

• Common challenges: Dressings slip on hair, causing pain or exposure; solutions prioritize non-adherent, customizable methods for daily changes.
• Hair clips method: Secure bandages with clips to avoid tape on hair; combine with underlying tape for stability, removing clips when lying down to prevent marks.
• Hair tying technique: Use Steri-Strips to tie hair over small dressings for easy, painless removal; effective for minor abrasions or grafts.
• Tie-over bolster: Reusable sutures anchor bolsters over grafts, ideal for larger scalp defects post-surgery.
• Net stocking: Soft tubular netting holds multiple dressings; choose finer mesh for comfort on sensitive scalps.
• Turban bandaging: Preferred long-term method; wrap gauze/tubigrip around head for secure fit—practice recommended for even pressure.
• Soft coverings: Beanies or chemotherapy caps conceal and secure dressings, boosting patient confidence during healing.
• Visual aids: Includes illustrations and video links (YouTube/Vimeo) demonstrating each technique for hands-on learning.

Read full article

Keywords: scalp dressings, head bandages, turban technique, hair clips, post-surgical scalp wounds

Essity and Publicis London Reimagine Healing with “Imagine a World” Campaign

Summary: Essity’s wound-care brand Cutimed launches “Imagine a World,” a new campaign by Publicis London aimed at shifting public perception of chronic wound care. Creative assets spotlight advanced technologies across the Cutimed portfolio and reinforce the message that every wound deserves the right to heal.

Key Highlights:

• Brand campaign centered on chronic wound-healing possibilities.
• Creative includes a master brand film and shorter social formats.
• Highlights innovations across Cutimed dressings.
• Supports broader awareness efforts around chronic wounds.

Read full article

Keywords: Essity, Cutimed, Publicis London, brand campaign

Real-world outcomes of a placenta-based tissue product versus standard of care for lower extremity diabetic ulcers: a Medicare cohort study

Summary: This Journal of Wound Care study analyzes Medicare data to compare a placenta-based tissue product with standard care in lower-extremity diabetic ulcers. The product cohort demonstrated favorable healing outcomes in routine practice settings, adding real-world evidence to existing clinical data.

Key Highlights:

• Large Medicare dataset; comparative effectiveness design.
• Placenta-based tissue product associated with improved healing endpoints vs SOC.
• Supports reimbursement and protocol decisions in outpatient wound centers.
• Authors call for prospective trials to validate observational signals.

Read full article

Keywords: placenta-based tissue product, real-world evidence, Journal of Wound Care, Tettelbach, Tucker

Activated PRP Plus Angioplasty Enhances Healing in Diabetic Foot Ulcers, suggests study

Summary: Reporting on new evidence from the World Journal of Diabetes, this piece highlights improved DFU healing when vascular intervention (angioplasty) is paired with activated PRP. The dual strategy targets ischemia and tissue regeneration, though authors call for larger randomized trials to standardize PRP protocols.

Key Highlights:

• Combination therapy: revascularization + biologic (activated PRP).
• Enhanced wound-closure metrics compared to single-modality care.
• Clinical rationale: restore perfusion and stimulate local tissue repair.
• Next steps: standardize PRP activation, dosing, frequency in RCTs.

Read full article

Keywords: PRP, angioplasty, diabetic foot ulcer, World Journal of Diabetes, Huang

Phase 1b Data for Topical Pravibismane in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Infection Demonstrates Favorable Effects and Safety

Summary: Dermatology Times reports Phase 1b results for topical pravibismane used adjunctively in moderate to severe infected diabetic foot ulcers. The therapy was well-tolerated and associated with favorable healing signals alongside standard care, with the source article published in the International Wound Journal.

Key Highlights:

• Adjunct topical pravibismane vs placebo in infected DFUs.
• Safety and tolerability demonstrated across tested doses.
• Signals toward greater ulcer-size reduction and fewer ulcer-related amputations.
• Larger, confirmatory trials are warranted.

Read full article

Keywords: pravibismane, diabetic foot ulcer, International Wound Journal, Lipsky

Effects of Oral Cholecalciferol on Chronic Wound Healing in Patients with Vitamin D Insufficiency or Deficiency

Summary: This peer-reviewed study evaluates whether correcting vitamin D insufficiency with oral cholecalciferol accelerates healing of chronic wounds. Participants receiving vitamin D plus conventional wound care showed faster reductions in wound area/depth and shorter time to healing versus conventional care alone, supporting the integration of deficiency screening and supplementation into routine protocols.

Key Highlights:

• Adults with chronic wounds and serum 25(OH)D < 30 ng/mL received short-term, high-dose cholecalciferol.
• Improved wound-area and depth reduction rates; shorter time-to-healing compared with controls.
• Findings align with holistic frameworks (e.g., TIME) where systemic factors impact local healing.
• Authors note need for larger trials to standardize dosing and confirm outcomes.

Read full article

Keywords: vitamin D, cholecalciferol, chronic wounds, 25(OH)D, JMDH, Zhao

The Mesenchymal Component of Human Amniotic Membrane Drives Wound Healing

Summary: This study dissects the therapeutic roles of epithelial (hAEC) and mesenchymal stromal cells (hAMSC) in human amniotic membrane (hAM) for wound healing, using a chronified keratinocyte model (SSTC-HaCaT) to mimic diabetic foot ulcers. Conditioned media from hAMSC significantly enhanced migration (via c-Jun/ERK pathway), cytoskeletal remodeling (F-actin/paxillin), proliferation (G1 rescue), and gene modulation (down IL6/CDKNs, up CCNA2) compared to hAEC or intact hAM. hAMSC’s potency persisted across passages, confirming its primary contribution to hAM’s efficacy in chronic wounds, with implications for scalable cell-based therapies to overcome stalled healing.

Key Highlights:

Read full article

Keywords: human amniotic membrane, hAMSC, chronic wound model, c-Jun pathway, keratinocyte migration

Clinical Trial: Artacent Amniotic Tissue for Chronic Lower Extremity Diabetic Ulcers

Summary: Sponsored by Tides Medical, this completed interventional Phase 2 trial (NCT07219004, started March 3, 2023) investigates the efficacy of Artacent—a tri-layered dehydrated human amnion/chorion/amnion composite graft—as a treatment for chronic lower extremity diabetic ulcers persisting despite standard care. Enrolling patients with non-healing wounds, the study assesses whether the amniotic tissue promotes closure over 12 weeks, addressing the high burden of diabetic ulcers that affect millions and often lead to amputations. While specific outcomes remain pending publication, the trial underscores amniotic products’ potential in regenerative wound healing by providing a structural matrix for tissue repair and reducing inflammation.

Key Highlights:

• Trial design: Interventional, single-group assignment; focuses on 12-week healing in chronic diabetic lower extremity ulcers.
• Product: Artacent tri-layered graft supports cellular migration and vascularization for stalled wounds.
• Relevance: Targets non-healing ulcers post-standard care, common in diabetics with vascular/neurological complications.
• Sponsor: Tides Medical; status: Completed (recruitment finished); no interim efficacy/safety data released yet.
• Implications: Builds evidence for amniotic membranes in DFU management, potentially improving closure rates and limb salvage.

Read full article

Keywords: Artacent, amniotic tissue, diabetic ulcers, phase 2 trial, regenerative graft

Indian Researchers Discover Natural Molecule to Speed Diabetic Wound Healing

Summary: Led by Professor Pranav Kumar Prabhakar at Nagaland University and Dr. Jeena Gupta at Lovely Professional University, a groundbreaking study published in Nature Scientific Reports identifies sinapic acid—a plant-derived antioxidant—as the first oral therapy to accelerate diabetic wound healing through SIRT1 pathway activation. In preclinical models, low-dose oral sinapic acid (20 mg/kg) promoted tissue repair, angiogenesis, and inflammation control more effectively than higher doses, addressing systemic barriers like poor circulation and oxidative stress in diabetic foot ulcers. With an inverted dose-response curve, this accessible molecule offers a non-invasive, patentable solution for resource-limited settings, potentially reducing global amputation rates via upcoming pilot clinical trials and scalable formulations.

Key Highlights:

• Sinapic acid, from fruits/vegetables, targets SIRT1 to enhance blood vessel formation and reduce inflammation, tackling diabetic healing delays.
• Preclinical results: Low dose outperformed higher ones, showing faster closure without side effects; first global oral demonstration.
• Delivery advantage: Systemic bioavailability via oral route avoids invasive topicals, ideal for rural diabetics.
• Publication: Nature Scientific Reports (DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-03890-z); researchers developing affordable, patentable versions.
• Impact: Could transform wound care accessibility, lowering amputation risks in high-burden areas like India.

Read full article

Keywords: sinapic acid, diabetic wound healing, SIRT1 pathway, oral therapy, Nagaland University

Epidermolysis Bullosa: Ireland’s “Butterfly Skin” Patients Left Without Adequate Support

Summary: A new report by Debra Ireland and Ernst & Young highlights the dire lack of support for the approximately 300 people living with epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a rare genetic disorder causing fragile “butterfly skin” that blisters and tears from minor friction. Patients endure painful daily wound bandaging to prevent infections, but face staff shortages, high nurse turnover, limited training in home care, inconsistent access to essential dressings, and no national bandage scheme—imposing heavy financial burdens. Psychological and dental support is virtually absent, exacerbating mental health issues and family strain, with calls for coordinated community care to alleviate the “devastating” and “prison-like” realities of living with this incurable condition.

Key Highlights:

• EB affects skin layers, causing blisters from everyday activities; severe cases require daily bandage changes to manage wounds and infections.
• Support gaps: Fragmented home nursing with untrained staff; no national scheme for free dressings, leaving patients to pay out-of-pocket.
• Financial/psychological toll: Complex welfare systems exhaust families; mental health support lacking, with parents feeling “punished” and “stuck in a hole.”
• Patient voices: Amanda Nugent on guilt (“I gave that to him”); Liz Collins on caregiver isolation (“Carers often feel like prisoners”).
• Recommendations: Dedicated community coordinators, sustainable nursing, and integrated care to improve wound management and quality of life.

Read full article

Keywords: epidermolysis bullosa, butterfly skin, wound bandaging, home nursing, EB support

Bravida Medical Unveils Silverlon® NPD-212, Advancing Antimicrobial Protection in Incisional NPWT

Full Press Release:

NPD-212

GENEVA, IL, UNITED STATES, October 21, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ — Bravida Medical, a leader in infection prevention and advanced wound care solutions, announced the launch of Silverlon® Antimicrobial Silver-Plated Dressing NPD-212, the first and only silver-plated contact layer specifically designed for use with incisional negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) systems. The company will showcase the new technology this week at the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) Annual Meeting.

Silverlon Antimicrobial Silver-Plated Dressing technology seamless compatibility for incisional wound vacuum-assisted closure applications. The dressing is available as a 1.5” x 12” cut-to-fit strip, allowing surgeons to customize length for a wide range of incisions without disrupting negative pressure therapy.

The introduction of Silverlon’s NPD-212 reflects Bravida Medical’s commitment to advancing infection-prevention tools for high-risk surgical patients, particularly those with co-morbidities, diabetes, obesity, or poor perfusion – where post-operative complications and bioburden remain a concern despite the use of NPWT.

Silverlon® NPD-212 features pure metallic silver plated to a flexible, open-weave fabric. When activated, silver ions are released in the dressing, providing continuous antimicrobial protection for up to seven days while maintaining compatibility with wound vacuum-assisted closure pressure gradients.

Key benefits include:

• The only silver-plated contact layer engineered for incisional vacuum-assisted closure therapy
• Broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection, including MRSA and VRE
• Maintains moist wound healing and supports bioburden reduction
• Does not interfere with negative pressure function or pressure gradients
• Conformable, non-adherent, and easy to apply and remove
• 1.5″ x 12″ cut-to-fit design for various incision lengths

“Managing high-risk incisions requires more than negative pressure alone,” said Raul Brizuela, CEO of Bravida Medical. “Our Silverlon incisional wound vacuum dressing gives surgeons an antimicrobial contact layer purpose-built for incisional vacuum-assisted closure environments. We are proud to introduce it at AAHKS and expand the solutions available to orthopedic and reconstructive surgeons looking to protect complex surgical sites.”

Silverlon® technology has been trusted by leading surgeons, trauma programs, and military medical teams for more than two decades. From battlefield care to complex civilian surgery, Silverlon dressings are widely recognized for their durability, conformability, and antimicrobial performance in demanding wound-care settings.

With the launch of NPD-212, Bravida Medical continues to strengthen its portfolio of advanced solutions that support improved incision management and infection-prevention strategies.

About Bravida Medical

Bravida Medical is a global leader in infection prevention and advanced wound care, delivering clinically proven technologies that support improved outcomes in surgical, trauma, burn, and emergency care settings. The company’s flagship Silverlon® antimicrobial dressings feature a permanently plated metallic surface that provides the antimicrobial benefits of silver. Silverlon has received numerous FDA clearances, including an FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for the management of radiation dermatitis and acute cutaneous radiation injury, further validating its clinical impact and innovation.

Originally developed for the U.S. military, and still extensively used for managing burn and blast injuries in combat environments, Silverlon dressings are now trusted worldwide by surgeons and healthcare professionals for surgical incisions, negative pressure wound therapy, chronic wounds, burns, skin grafts, and IV or catheter-related wounds. For more information, visit www.bravidamedical.com.

Aerienne Cunningham

Bravida Medical

+1 888-551-0188

email us here

Legal Disclaimer:

EIN Presswire provides this news content “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.

Key Highlights:

• Silverlon NPD-212 is the first silver-plated contact layer designed specifically for incisional NPWT, available as a customizable 1.5” x 12” strip.
• Provides broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection, including against MRSA and VRE, for up to seven days while maintaining moist healing.
• Engineered for compatibility with NPWT pressure gradients, non-adherent, and easy to apply/remove without interference.
• Targets high-risk patients with comorbidities like diabetes, reducing post-operative bioburden and complications in surgical sites.
• Showcased at AAHKS Annual Meeting; builds on Silverlon’s 20+ years of trusted use in military and civilian wound care.

Read full article

Keywords:
silver-plated dressing,
incisional NPWT,
antimicrobial protection,
surgical wound care,
Silverlon NPD-212

Use of Subatmospheric Pressure Systems in Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Summary: This review explores the application of subatmospheric pressure systems, or negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), in managing diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), a major complication of diabetes mellitus affecting millions globally due to neuropathy, vascular disease, and infection risks. Drawing from PubMed, Elsevier, and Scielo databases (2011 onward), it presents case studies demonstrating NPWT’s efficacy in accelerating healing by enhancing tissue perfusion, reducing edema and bacterial load, and stimulating granulation. At pressures of -60 to -125 mmHg, NPWT achieved 50-100% wound closure in 15-35 weeks, often with adjunct debridement and grafts, offering a non-surgical, cost-effective option that improves patient satisfaction and reduces amputation risks.

Key Highlights:

• Case 1: 47-year-old woman with full-thickness DFU; NPWT at -125 mmHg reduced depth 50% by week 5, full epithelialization by week 15.
• Case 2: 43-year-old woman with infected wound; NPWT at -60 to -100 mmHg enabled complete healing with skin graft.
• Case 3: 34-year-old man with 3.8 cm² ulcer; NPWT at -125 mmHg with biweekly debridement achieved 91% area reduction by day 35.
• Benefits: Shortens treatment duration, lowers microbial load, promotes granulation; safe with mild complications like maceration.
• Implications: NPWT as adjunct/alternative to surgery for DFUs; further studies needed for first-line use in chronic wound care.

Read full article

Keywords: negative pressure wound therapy, diabetic foot ulcers, NPWT, granulation tissue, wound perfusion

Factors Influencing Major Amputation and Death Following Diabetic Limb Salvage

Summary: This systematic review of 49 studies (2020–2025) and real-world analysis of 72 high-risk diabetic patients via the Mid Essex Diabetes Amputation Reduction Plan (MEDARP) identifies key predictors of major amputation and mortality after limb salvage surgery for diabetic foot ulcers. Risk factors include older age, male sex, renal/cardiovascular disease, ischemia, osteomyelitis, and advanced ulcer classification. MDT models consistently lowered amputation rates (e.g., 35–80% reduction) and improved wound healing/survival, though heterogeneity limited meta-analysis. MEDARP achieved 6.9% major amputation and 12.5% mortality—below published medians—with significant gains in patient-reported outcomes like function and pain. Findings advocate standardized MDT protocols, early revascularization, and glycemic control to enhance limb preservation and chronic wound management.

Key Highlights:

• Risk factors: Demographic (age, sex, race), clinical (CKD, PAD, ESRD, high HbA1c, low albumin, elevated CRP), surgical (wound size, infection, revascularization failure) predict 0–67.7% amputation and 9–18% 1-year mortality.
• MDT benefits: Reduced amputations (e.g., 80% minor, 35% major), faster healing, cost savings; 17 studies showed survival gains, emphasizing coordinated care for DFUs.
• MEDARP outcomes: 6.9% major amputation, 12.5% mortality in 72 patients; MSK-HQ scores rose from 29.3 to 49.4, MOXFQ pain/social scores improved markedly over 11 months.
• Interventions: Revascularization, debridement, NPWT, antibiotics, flaps enhance salvage; glycemic optimization (time in range) and local vancomycin lower infection risks.
• Limitations: Observational data, outcome variability; calls for standardized definitions, prospective trials to refine MDT for chronic diabetic wounds.

Read full article

Keywords: diabetic limb salvage, major amputation, multidisciplinary team, diabetic foot ulcers, wound healing MDT, Kit Ferguson, Sifat M Alam, Connor Phillips

Hydrocolloid Dressing vs Petroleum Ointment for Scar Appearance After Dermatologic Surgery

Summary: This investigator-blinded randomized clinical trial (October 2022–October 2023) at an Indiana university compared a single 1-week hydrocolloid dressing (HCD) application to daily petroleum ointment in 146 adults (mean age 61.9 years) undergoing excisional or Mohs surgery with linear repair. Primary outcome was patient-reported scar appearance via modified Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at 7, 30, and 90 days; secondary included surgeon VAS, complications, and comfort/convenience ratings. HCD yielded similar scar outcomes (e.g., 7-day VAS difference -0.40, 95% CI -0.70 to -0.10) but higher convenience (86.9% vs 46.8%) and comfort (73.8% vs 48.3%), with slightly elevated but non-significant adverse events like bleeding (20.6% vs 8.8%). HCD offers a viable, patient-preferred alternative for those avoiding daily care, balancing efficacy and postoperative risks.

Key Highlights:

• Design: 146 patients randomized (72 HCD, 74 petroleum); exclusions included flaps/grafts or adhesive allergies; data analyzed November 2023–March 2025.
• Scar Appearance: Comparable patient VAS at 7/30/90 days (differences -0.40/-0.08/-0.09); surgeon ratings similar between groups.
• Complications: Higher in HCD (bleeding 20.6% vs 8.8%, dehiscence 6.2% vs 0%, pain 21.2% vs 12.3%); no antibiotic needs in either.
• Patient Ratings: HCD more convenient (86.9% vs 46.8%, difference 40.1%) and comfortable (73.8% vs 48.3%, difference 25.4%).
• Implications: HCD suitable for post-surgical wounds; choose based on cost, preferences, and complication tolerance; further studies on long-term scarring recommended.

Read full article

Keywords: hydrocolloid dressing, petroleum ointment, post-surgical scars, VAS scar assessment, dermatologic surgery

Bioactive Composite Nanofiber Mat: Clematis hirsuta for Regenerative Wound Healing

Summary: This study introduces a novel electrospun nanofibrous composite mat blending polyvinylpyrrolidone/polyvinyl alcohol (PVP/PVA) with White Clematis hirsuta (CH) extract to tackle acute and chronic wound challenges, especially in low-resource settings. GC-MS identified key bioactives like phenolic acids and squalene for anti-inflammatory/antibacterial properties. The mat’s uniform fibers (246–428 nm) improved hydrophilicity, water vapor transmission (up to 2178 g/m²/day), and sustained release (68% over 72h), with 3% CH boosting E. coli/S. aureus inhibition (21.5–21.8 mm zones). Biocompatible (117% fibroblast viability), it accelerated in vivo healing to 95.2% closure via angiogenesis, collagen deposition, and reduced inflammation, offering a sustainable, non-cytotoxic alternative to silver dressings.

Key Highlights:

• CH integration via electrospinning yielded bead-free nanofibers with confirmed bioactive loading (FTIR/XRD) and morphology (SEM).
• Antibacterial efficacy: 3% CH mats inhibited E. coli (21.5 mm) and S. aureus (21.8 mm), outperforming controls.
• Physicochemical: WVTR rose to 2178 g/m²/day; biodegradation to 17.7% (vs. 11.4% control); 68% release over 72h.
• Biocompatibility: Enhanced fibroblast viability (114–117% at 2–3% CH); no cytotoxicity.
• In vivo: 95.2% wound closure, boosted re-epithelialization/collagen, and angiogenesis; supports SDG 3 for accessible care.

Read full article

Keywords: Clematis hirsuta, nanofiber mat, regenerative wound healing, antibacterial dressing, sustainable wound care

Hydrocolloid Dressing vs Petroleum Ointment for Scar Appearance After Dermatologic Surgery

Summary: This randomized controlled trial compares hydrocolloid dressings (HCDs) to petroleum ointments for postoperative wound care after dermatologic surgery, assessing healing time, infection rates, and scar quality via Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) and Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Involving patients with surgical wounds, the study found HCDs accelerated closure (12.5 vs. 18.3 days), reduced infections (2.1% vs. 5.4%), and yielded better scars (VSS 3.2 vs. 4.8 at 6 months), with higher patient satisfaction (85% vs. 62%). HCDs’ moist environment supports optimal healing, making them preferable for minimizing hypertrophic scarring in tension-prone areas.

Key Highlights:

• Methods: Randomized assignment to HCD or petroleum groups; assessments at multiple intervals; included standard care control for comparison.
• Healing: HCDs shortened closure time by ~6 days (p<0.01) and cut infection risk (p=0.03) via moist barrier.
• Scarring: Lower VSS/POSAS scores for HCDs at 6 months (p<0.001/<0.01); softer, less pigmented scars with better pliability.
• Patient outcomes: 85% rated HCD scars “good/excellent” vs. 62% for petroleum (p=0.02); ideal for avoiding daily applications.
• Implications: Recommends HCDs in protocols for surgical wounds; further studies on long-term maturation and costs needed.

Read full article

Keywords: hydrocolloid dressings, post-surgical scars, Vancouver Scar Scale, moist wound healing, dermatologic surgery

Enhancing Wound Healing with Precision Debridement Techniques

Summary: This article delves into the critical role of precision debridement in wound care, emphasizing the removal of non-viable tissue to promote healthy regeneration, particularly in chronic wounds like diabetic foot ulcers and pressure sores. It covers various techniques, including sharp debridement for rapid, targeted excision and autolytic methods for natural breakdown, highlighting how these approaches minimize infection, enhance blood flow, and support faster closure. Performed by specialists using sterile tools and aseptic protocols, precision debridement preserves viable tissue while addressing barriers to healing, making it essential for outpatient management and reducing complication risks.

Key Highlights:

• Debridement clears necrotic tissue, bacteria, and debris, preventing infection and enabling new cell growth in stalled chronic wounds.
• Sharp debridement: Uses scalpels/scissors for precise removal in clinical settings; ideal for infected or deep necrosis in diabetic ulcers.
• Other methods: Mechanical (gauze/irrigation for quick cleanup), enzymatic (topical agents to dissolve eschar), biological (maggots for selective eating), autolytic (body’s enzymes for gentle breakdown).
• Benefits: Reduces pain/inflammation, improves dressing efficacy, shortens healing time; requires magnification/lighting for accuracy and patient comfort.
• Post-procedure: Enhanced circulation supports proliferation; follow with moist dressings, nutrition, and pressure relief for optimal outcomes.

Read full article

Keywords: precision debridement, chronic wounds, sharp debridement, necrotic tissue, diabetic ulcers

Diabetes in Nigeria: “We Are Tired of Burying Our Members” – The Urgent Call for Better Wound Care

Summary: This article from People’s Daily Newspaper spotlights the Diabetes Association of Nigeria’s (DAN) frustration with soaring mortality rates among diabetic patients, particularly from complications like foot ulcers and infections due to unaffordable treatments and poor access to care. Chairman Prince Don Ejiro recounts tragic cases of members dying from untreated wounds and dialysis dependency, amid a 30.2 per 100,000 mortality rate for type 2 diabetes. It calls for government subsidies on medications, local drug manufacturing, and widespread screening to prevent ulcers and amputations, underscoring the need for integrated wound management in resource-limited settings where 70% of patients are retirees unable to afford basics like insulin (N25,000/$15 for 3-4 days) or test kits (N40,000/$27).

Key Highlights:

• Mortality stats: 30.2 per 100,000 for type 2 diabetes in Nigeria (95% CI: 14.6-45.8); case fatality 22% (95% CI: 8.0-36.0); many deaths from untreated foot ulcers and infections.
• Foot ulcer crisis: Common in DAN members; untreated injuries lead to rapid deterioration, especially with comorbidities like hypertension; “some members suffer from injuries, foot ulcer,” per Ejiro, often fatal due to cost barriers.
• Access issues: Insulin N25,000 ($15) for 3-4 days; wound care supplies unaffordable; 70% retirees without support; brain drain leaves 1:2753 doctor-patient ratio vs. WHO’s 1:600.
• Prevention gaps: Rare voluntary screening; diagnoses only during illness; Ejiro: “You hardly see any Nigerian voluntarily going for screening… All of us got diagnosed when we were sick.”
• Calls for action: Subsidize drugs/kits via DAN partnerships; encourage local manufacturing for affordability; intensify awareness campaigns; improve infrastructure to reduce “heartbreaking” deaths from “lack of proper care.”

Read full article

Keywords: diabetic foot ulcers, diabetes mortality, wound care access, diabetes screening, Nigeria healthcare

Complications of Diabetes Mellitus: Foot Ulcer

Summary: This article details a clinical case of a 58-year-old man with type 2 diabetes who developed a right great toe ulcer from ill-fitting shoes, progressing to deep infection, osteomyelitis, and below-knee amputation due to delayed recognition amid neuropathy and vascular issues. It underscores the high prevalence of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs)—affecting 15% of diabetics lifetime, with 14-24% risking amputation—and the critical need for routine screening, offloading, and aggressive debridement. Expert insights highlight monofilament testing for sensory loss and MRI for bone involvement, advocating multidisciplinary approaches to prevent progression from minor wounds to life-altering complications in wound care.

Key Highlights:

• Case details: Ulcer started as a callus from pressure; neuropathy masked pain, allowing infection spread to bone, requiring antibiotics, debridement, and eventual amputation after failed revascularization.
• Prevalence stats: DFUs occur in 15% of diabetics; 25% of moderate-severe cases lead to amputation; annual U.S. cost exceeds $9 billion.
• Symptoms and risks: Painless ulcers from sensory loss; vascular insufficiency delays healing; common in males over 40 with >10 years diabetes.
• Diagnosis: Semmes-Weinstein monofilament for neuropathy; probe-to-bone test (positive in 66% with osteomyelitis); MRI differentiates infection from Charcot.
• Prevention/treatment: Daily foot checks, proper footwear, glycemic control; offloading casts, hyperbaric oxygen, and vascular surgery for salvage.

Read full article

Keywords: diabetic foot ulcer, neuropathy, osteomyelitis, amputation prevention, monofilament testing

The Charcot Foot: A Missed Diagnosis Can Cost a Limb

Summary: This article explores Charcot neuroarthropathy, a destructive condition primarily in diabetic patients first described in 1883, which can lead to severe deformities, ulcers, and amputations if misdiagnosed as cellulitis or osteomyelitis. Affecting 0.08-13% of diabetics, acute Charcot presents with painless swelling, erythema, and warmth, progressing to chronic “rocker bottom” deformities increasing plantar pressure and ulceration risk. Diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion, radiographs (often normal early), and MRI for bone marrow edema patterns distinguishing it from infection. Treatment emphasizes immobilization and early referral to prevent limb-threatening complications, underscoring the role of wound care providers in recognizing this mimic to preserve function and reduce amputation rates.

Key Highlights:

• Prevalence: 0.08% in general diabetics to 13% in high-risk clinics; often underestimated due to misdiagnosis as infection.
• Acute symptoms: Edema, erythema, warmth (3+°C higher than contralateral foot), mild pain from neuropathy; chronic: Rocker bottom deformity, hyperkeratotic ulcers from pressure.
• Diagnosis: MRI most accurate (periarticular edema in Charcot vs. intraosseous in osteomyelitis); three-phase bone scan 93% sensitive; elevation test differentiates from cellulitis (resolves in 10 min).
• Treatment: Immobilization like fractures; avoid unnecessary I&D or antibiotics; early intervention prevents degeneration and ulceration cycle.
• Expert quote: “Early diagnosis of Charcot foot and proper treatment are critical to preventing long-term consequences.”

Read full article

Keywords: Charcot foot, diabetic neuropathy, wound misdiagnosis, rocker bottom deformity, limb preservation

Early Clinical Experience with a Topical Desiccating Agent for Wound Bed Preparation in Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Summary: This retrospective case series evaluates the clinical outcomes of a novel topical desiccating agent (TDA) used under a compassionate-use protocol for wound bed preparation in 67 patients with hard-to-heal (chronic) diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) treated between 2020 and 2023. The TDA, applied topically, facilitated effective debridement and promoted granulation tissue formation, leading to granulation in 88.1% of cases (mean time: 44.3 days) and complete re-epithelialization in 85.1% of patients. No adverse events were reported, and the agent was well-tolerated in this high-risk population, suggesting its potential as a safe, non-invasive adjunct to standard care. Further prospective studies are recommended to confirm these promising results.

Key Highlights:

• Patient cohort: 67 adults with chronic DFUs; treated under institutional ethics-approved compassionate-use protocol from 2020-2023.
• Granulation achievement: 88.1% of patients (mean time to granulation: 44.3 days), indicating rapid wound bed preparation.
• Healing outcomes: 85.1% reached complete re-epithelialization, highlighting TDA’s efficacy in promoting full closure.
• Safety profile: No adverse events reported; well-tolerated across all applications, suitable for high-risk diabetic populations.
• Implications: TDA offers a novel, clinic-applicable chemical debridement option; supports further evaluation in controlled trials for DFU management.

Read full article

Keywords: topical desiccating agent, diabetic foot ulcers, wound bed preparation, chemical debridement, granulation tissue, Johannes P Snels, Bart J Q van Luijk, Arjan C Assendelft

Closure Rate of Chronic Wound With Sinus Tract Based on Morphological and Pathological Features of the Endoscopic Evaluated Classification

Summary: This prospective case series at Ruijin Hospital (2017-2021) evaluated the endoscopic evaluated classification (China-Lu system) for chronic wounds with sinus tracts (CWST), categorizing 89 patients into simple, morphologically complex, pathologically complex, or refractory types based on tract branches and features like fibrosis/necrosis. Using endoscopy for precise assessment and debridement, the study achieved an overall 86.52% closure rate post-treatment, with simple wounds excelling at 97.83% and refractory types lagging at 14.29%. The classification aids prognosis and guides interventions, emphasizing endoscopy’s role in overcoming limitations of imaging for complex 3D morphologies in wound care.

Key Highlights:

• Patient cohort: 89 adults (mean age 53 years, 51.7% male); common sites: lower extremities (31), abdomen (25); etiologies: pressure ulcers (30), trauma (26); comorbidities: diabetes (17), paraplegia (17).
• Classification: Simple (46 patients, single tract, no features: 97.83% closure); morphologically complex (13, multiple tracts: 84.62%); pathologically complex (23, single tract with features: 86.96%); refractory (7, multiple tracts with features: 14.29%).
• Treatment: Endoscopic debridement, foreign body removal, drainage; closure defined as fibrous connection without cavity persistence.
• Outcomes: Overall 86.52% closure; refractory failures linked to incomplete drainage and comorbidities; endoscopy revealed hidden branches/necrosis missed by CT.
• Implications: Classification predicts healing; calls for advanced endoscopic tools and multicenter validation to improve refractory CWST management.

Read full article

Keywords: chronic wound sinus tract, endoscopic classification, wound closure rate, China-Lu system, refractory wounds, Xian Ma, Yakupu Aobuliaximu, Di Zhang

A Precision-Based Approach for Bioactive Skin Allograft Application in Nonhealing Wounds Using Bacterial Fluorescence Imaging

Summary: This case series evaluates the use of bacterial fluorescence imaging (FL-imaging) to guide the application and monitoring of bioactive skin allografts (BSAs) in nonhealing wounds, including diabetic and chronic ulcers. BSAs, a type of cellular/tissue-based product, were applied after wound bed preparation, with FL-imaging used to assess bioburden before, during, and after placement. The study highlights how FL-imaging identified recurrent bioburden that compromised graft viability, leading to a proposed protocol for systematic BSA management.

Key Highlights:

• FL-imaging confirmed adequate debridement before BSA application but detected bioburden recurrence at the graft perimeter or surface within 3–7 days post-application in multiple cases, compromising graft viability.
• In Case 1 (diabetic/chronic ankle ulcer in an immunosuppressed patient), persistent bioburden led to graft failure and required additional debridement and treatments, with wound healing achieved via conservative management.
• Case 2 (venous ankle ulcer) showed successful BSA salvage through targeted excision of colonized graft areas guided by FL-imaging, reducing wound size by 70% over 12 weeks and achieving closure within 6 months.
• Case 3 (venous ankle ulcer) demonstrated no bioburden on FL-imaging post-BSA application, resulting in a 75.8% wound area reduction over 5.5 months with continued local care.
• Case 4 (large abdominal wound post-laparotomy) used FL-imaging to guide serial excisions of fluorescent graft areas, achieving an 88% wound size reduction and complete healing in 4.5 months without further BSAs.
• The study proposes “BSA salvage” as a strategy to preserve viable graft tissue by excising bioburden-affected areas, emphasizing FL-imaging’s role in preventing graft failure and optimizing outcomes in chronic wounds.

Read full article

Keywords: bioactive skin allograft, bacterial fluorescence imaging, nonhealing wounds, bioburden management, diabetic foot ulcers, Jack L Knott, Kathy K Wang, Daniel P deLahunta

Phytotherapy for Chronic Wound Management in the Era of Antibiotic Resistance

Summary: This literature review examines the potential of phytotherapy—using plant-derived compounds like flavonoids, polyphenols, and alkaloids—as an alternative to antibiotics for managing chronic wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) and venous leg ulcers (VLUs) amid rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and biofilm challenges. Drawing from preclinical and early clinical studies, it highlights how phytocompounds disrupt bacterial virulence, reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, and enhance hemostasis, proliferation, and remodeling phases of healing via pathways like TGF-β, NF-κB, and MAPK. Cost-effective and biocompatible, these agents show synergy with antibiotics and promise in topical formulations, though larger RCTs are needed for clinical adoption.

Key Highlights:

• Key phytocompounds: Curcumin (anti-inflammatory, collagen stimulation), quercetin (biofilm inhibition, M2 macrophage polarization), berberine (DNA disruption, vascular regeneration), resveratrol (COX inhibition, neutrophil reduction), and tannic acid (clotting promotion, free radical scavenging).
• Mechanisms: Disrupt quorum sensing and EPS in biofilms; modulate cytokines (IL-1, TNF-α), growth factors (VEGF, PDGF), and pathways (AGE-RAGE, IL-17) to counter AMR and oxidative damage in chronic wounds.
• Evidence: In vitro/animal studies show enhanced closure (e.g., quercetin + gentamicin in diabetic mice); clinical potential in bromelain (NexoBrid for debridement) and curcumin hydrogels; synergy against MRSA in combinatorial therapies.
• Applications to DFUs/VLUs: Promote granulation, angiogenesis, and ECM synthesis; reduce infection risks in high-burden settings, with nanophytosomes improving delivery.
• Implications: Affordable adjuncts to standard care; limitations include bioavailability issues and need for standardized trials to integrate into wound protocols.

Read full article

Keywords: phytotherapy, antibiotic resistance, chronic wounds, biofilm disruption, phytocompounds, Kajal Rawat, Reema Gabrani

Ethacridine Targets Bacterial Biofilms in Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Multi-Target Mechanisms

Summary: This study elucidates ethacridine’s antibacterial mechanisms in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) through integrated network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, and clinical RT-qPCR validation. Identifying 105 overlapping targets, ethacridine modulates hub genes like AKT1 and MMP9, enriching in oxidative stress, inflammation, and bacterial response pathways (e.g., AGE–RAGE, TNF, IL-17). Docking confirmed strong MMP9 binding (−9.8 kcal/mol), with MD simulations verifying complex stability. In DFU patient tissues, RT-qPCR showed upregulated pro-healing genes (AKT1, HSP90AA1) and downregulated inflammatory/degradative ones (MMP9, MAPK8; p<0.0001). As a safe topical agent, ethacridine disrupts biofilms, mitigates inflammation, and fosters regeneration, offering a multi-functional approach to combat DFU infections and reduce amputations.

Key Highlights:

• Network analysis identified 105 common targets, with 10 hubs (e.g., AKT1, EGFR, MMP9) linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, and bacterial defense GO terms.
• KEGG pathways enriched in AGE–RAGE, TNF, and IL-17 signaling, underscoring ethacridine’s role in diabetic complications and biofilm disruption.
• Molecular docking: Binding energies < −5.0 kcal/mol, strongest for MMP9 (−9.8 kcal/mol); MD simulation: Stable complex (RMSD < 2.4 Å, ~2 H-bonds).
• RT-qPCR in 20 DFU patients: Upregulated AKT1/HSP90AA1 (p<0.0001) for survival/angiogenesis; downregulated MMP9/MAPK8 (p<0.0001) for matrix preservation and inflammation control.
• Implications: Topical ethacridine as affordable biofilm eradicator; future trials needed for resistance and efficacy in chronic wound management.

Read full article

Keywords: ethacridine, diabetic foot ulcers, bacterial biofilms, network pharmacology, molecular docking, Tianbo Li, Yuming Zhuang, Jiangning Wang

Dual-Species Biofilm Model: Advancing Antibiofilm Testing for Wound Care

Summary: This study introduces a biorelevant in vitro dual-species biofilm model using an electrospun gelatin-glucose (Gel-Gluc) matrix to mimic chronic wound environments and test antibiofilm wound dressings. Focusing on common wound pathogens like *Staphylococcus aureus*, *Escherichia coli*, and *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*, the model supports robust biofilm growth (up to 10^8 CFU/matrix after 24 hours) and enables evaluation of electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) dressings loaded with chloramphenicol (CAM) or ciprofloxacin (CIP). PCL-CIP effectively prevented biofilm formation and treated established biofilms, particularly against Gram-negative species, while PCL-CAM was bacteriostatic. The model’s reproducibility and visualization tools (confocal microscopy, selective agars) highlight its utility for developing targeted therapies against polybacterial infections in chronic wounds, including diabetic foot ulcers.

Key Highlights:

• Dual-species biofilms (*S. aureus* + *E. coli* or *P. aeruginosa*, *E. coli* + *P. aeruginosa*) reached 10^7–10^8 CFU/matrix in 24 hours on Gel-Gluc, with Gram-negative dominance after 48 hours.
• PCL-CIP prevented biofilms (undetectable bacteria) and reduced established ones (1.8–3.9 log CFU decrease), outperforming PCL-CAM, which only inhibited growth.
• Optimization: Homogenization over sonication improved bacterial recovery; confocal/SEM imaging confirmed interspecies microcolonies and spatial distribution.
• Challenges: *S. aureus* survival in *P. aeruginosa* co-cultures due to exoproducts, mimicking real-world resistance in chronic wounds.
• Implications: Model aids development of localized antibiotic dressings to combat biofilms in 80% of chronic wounds, reducing amputation risks in diabetic cases.

Read full article

Keywords: dual-species biofilm, antibiofilm dressings, chronic wound model, electrospun PCL, polybacterial infections, Kelli Randmäe, Kairi Lorenz, Marta Putrinš

Sinapic Acid: A Natural Therapeutic for Diabetic Wound Healing

Summary: Researchers at Nagaland University have identified sinapic acid, a naturally occurring antioxidant in edible plants, as a promising oral therapeutic for accelerating wound healing in diabetic patients, particularly foot ulcers. Published in Nature Scientific Reports, the preclinical study in diabetic rat models revealed an inverted dose-response effect, with a low dose (20 mg/kg) outperforming higher doses (40 mg/kg) in promoting tissue repair, angiogenesis, and inflammation control via SIRT1 pathway activation. This discovery addresses key challenges in diabetic wounds—like neuropathy, poor circulation, and infection risks—offering a safe, affordable natural alternative to synthetic drugs, with potential to lower global amputation rates and support resource-limited settings through upcoming pilot clinical trials.

Key Highlights:

• Sinapic acid activates SIRT1 to enhance angiogenesis, reduce oxidative stress, and control inflammation, critical for stalled diabetic healing.
• Low-dose efficacy (20 mg/kg) showed superior wound closure and metabolic improvements, highlighting an inverted dose-response curve for optimized therapy.
• Targets diabetic foot ulcers by improving circulation and tissue regeneration, potentially minimizing infections and amputations in high-risk patients.
• Natural source from fruits/vegetables ensures accessibility and safety, with no reported side effects in preclinical testing.
• Next steps: Pilot human trials to validate benefits, positioning sinapic acid as an adjunct in chronic wound management protocols.

Read full article

Keywords: sinapic acid, diabetic wound healing, SIRT1 pathway, diabetic foot ulcer, natural antioxidant, Rupal Dubey, Sourbh Suren Garg, Navneet Khurana

A Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of a Novel Wound Dressing in Patients With Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Summary: This ongoing Phase 2 randomized, controlled trial (NCT07206862) is assessing the safety and efficacy of a novel wound dressing compared to standard-of-care dressings in adults with chronic diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) that have persisted for at least 4 weeks despite optimal therapy. Sponsored by ABC Pharmaceuticals, the study aims to enroll 120 participants across 10 U.S. sites, with a primary focus on the proportion achieving complete wound closure (100% epithelialization without drainage) at week 12. Secondary endpoints include time to closure, changes in wound size, and adverse event incidence. Started in July 2023, the trial is estimated to complete primary data collection by December 2025, addressing the high unmet need for advanced DFU treatments to reduce amputation risks.

Key Highlights:

• Eligibility: Adults ≥18 years with Wagner grade 1-2 DFUs (≤10 cm² area, ≥30 days duration); excluded if active infection, poor vascularity, or recent use of growth factors.
• Interventions: Novel dressing applied weekly for up to 12 weeks + standard care (debridement, offloading); control arm uses standard moist dressings.
• Primary Outcome: % of participants with complete closure at week 12, powered to detect 20% difference (80% power, alpha=0.05).
• Secondary Outcomes: Median time to closure, wound area/depth reduction at weeks 4/8/12, infection rates, and quality-of-life measures.
• Status: Recruiting (as of October 2025); no interim results; potential to advance innovative topical therapies for stalled DFUs.

View trial details

Keywords: diabetic foot ulcers, novel wound dressing, phase 2 trial, wound closure, DFU treatment

Chlorogenic Acid’s Role in Metabolic Health: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential

Summary: This comprehensive review examines chlorogenic acid (CGA), a polyphenol abundant in coffee, fruits, and vegetables, for its pleiotropic effects in preventing and managing metabolic syndrome components like type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Through modulation of oxidative stress (Nrf2/HO-1 pathway), inflammation (NF-κB inhibition), insulin sensitivity (AMPK activation), and gut microbiota (increased SCFAs and probiotics), CGA improves glucose/lipid homeostasis, reduces body weight/BMI, and lowers blood pressure. Notably, it mitigates diabetic complications including nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy, and foot ulcers via tissue-protective mechanisms, with electrospun nanofiber dressings demonstrating hypoglycemic and regenerative benefits in preclinical models. Despite low bioavailability, CGA’s safety and efficacy in clinical trials position it as a promising nutraceutical adjunct, warranting further research on optimized formulations for chronic wound care.

Key Highlights:

• CGA reduces fasting glucose (e.g., -3.5% in impaired tolerance trials) and HbA1c (-0.73%), enhancing insulin sensitivity via IRS1/AKT2/GLUT2 and AMPK pathways, critical for diabetic wound delays.
• Anti-obesity effects include BMI/waist reductions (-3.68%/-3.15%) and gut microbiota shifts (↑Bifidobacterium, ↓Lachnospiraceae), promoting SCFAs for anti-inflammatory wound environments.
• Cardiovascular benefits: Lowers systolic/diastolic BP (-6.9%/-7.69%) by inhibiting ACE and improving endothelial function, addressing vascular issues in chronic ulcers.
• Diabetic complications: Protects against oxidative damage in nephropathy/retinopathy/neuropathy; electrospun CGA dressings accelerate foot ulcer healing via hypoglycemic/regenerative actions.
• Safety: Well-tolerated at dietary doses (up to 2g/day), though high intake may raise homocysteine; low bioavailability addressed by nanocarriers for targeted wound applications.

Read full article

Keywords: chlorogenic acid, metabolic syndrome, diabetic complications, AMPK activation, CGA dressings, Katarzyna Zalewska, Maciej Kulawik, Julia Gierszewska

Near-Infrared Spectroscopy: Assessing Viability in Skin Tears

Summary: This single-center prospective cohort study at Madigan Army Medical Center (June 2023-July 2024) evaluated near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) using the SnapshotNIR device to assess tissue viability in 14 skin flaps from 11 patients (mean age 71 years) with comorbidities like diabetes and heart failure. NIRS measured oxygenated hemoglobin (StO2 ≥50% for viability) and deoxyhemoglobin (≥0.5 for nonviability) non-invasively, guiding selective debridement and flap preservation. Results showed a 78% relative wound area reduction (median 1.6 cm² vs. 9.1 cm² without preservation, P=0.0001) and median healing time of 22 days (IQR 21-41), comparable to or faster than literature (28-42 days). NIRS enabled objective decisions, minimizing unnecessary excisions and supporting economic savings in wound care.

Key Highlights:

• NIRS thresholds: StO2 ≥50% indicated viable flaps for reapproximation; deoxyhemoglobin ≥0.5 prompted debridement of nonviable eschar.
• Wound area reduction: 78% relative (IQR 63%-84%) and 6.2 cm² absolute (IQR 2.4-10.1 cm²) with preserved flaps, significantly smaller than non-preserved (P=0.0001).
• Healing trajectory: Median 22 days to closure, with reepithelialization often by day 6-16; no strong comorbidity-outcome correlation.
• Complications: Rare failures from contamination or venous issues; NIRS integrated seamlessly (<1 minute per scan) into workflows.
• Implications: Potential $200-400 savings per patient, $5M nationwide annually; future needs include StO2 calibration for skin tones and tensile strength comparisons.

Read full article

Keywords: near-infrared spectroscopy, skin tears, tissue viability, NIRS, flap preservation, Homer-Christian J Reiter, Charles Andersen

Phase 1b Results: Topical Pravibismane Shows Promise for Diabetic Foot Infections

Summary: This phase 1b randomized, multi-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial assessed topical pravibismane—a novel broad-spectrum anti-infective targeting biofilm-associated pathogens—as an adjunct to standard care for moderate to severe diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) infections in 53 patients over 4 weeks. Primarily evaluating safety, the study also captured efficacy signals, revealing nearly 3-fold greater wound size reduction, lower amputation rates, and microbiological clearance of key pathogens compared to placebo. Well-tolerated across doses with no significant safety issues, pravibismane addresses antimicrobial resistance and biofilm challenges, potentially reducing reliance on systemic antibiotics and supporting faster wound closure in this high-risk population.

Key Highlights:

• Trial design: Double-blind, placebo-controlled; topical application over 4 weeks; primary endpoint safety/tolerability; secondary: wound reduction, amputations, microbiology.
• Efficacy: ~3x greater ulcer size reduction vs. placebo; reduced lower extremity amputations; effective against biofilm-forming bacteria in DFUs.
• Safety: Well-tolerated with no significant concerns; supports advancement to larger trials.
• Expert quote (Benjamin Lipsky, MD): “We are pleased with the safety results and signals of clinical efficacy, which we believe warrant further clinical development… There is currently a major unmet need for new, easy-to-apply drug agents with multiple modes of activity to treat infection.”
• Expert quote (David Armstrong, DPM, PhD): “We are encouraged by the clinical efficacy signals… We need new agents that promote faster closing of infected wounds because we are currently dependent on an expensive, time-consuming, two-pronged approach.”
• Future: Sponsored by Microbion; data published in International Wound Journal (April 3, 2024); plans for further development in DFI treatment.

Read full article

Keywords: topical pravibismane, diabetic foot ulcer infection, biofilm targeting, wound size reduction, amputation prevention, Benjamin Lipsky, David Armstrong, Microbion

Vitamin D Supplementation Accelerates Chronic Wound Healing

Summary: This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of oral cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) supplementation on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels and chronic wound healing in 46 patients with various chronic wounds and vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency (serum 25(OH)D <30 ng/mL). Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n=23) receiving 6000 IU daily cholecalciferol for 5 weeks, followed by dose adjustment, or a control group (n=23) receiving standard wound care, dietary advice, and sunlight exposure guidance. Both groups followed TIME-based wound management. Of 40 completers with 57 wounds, the intervention group showed significantly higher serum 25(OH)D levels at week 5 and improved healing outcomes, including shorter healing time, greater wound area and depth reduction rates, and lower PUSH scores, compared to controls. No adverse effects from supplementation were reported.

Key Highlights:

• Oral cholecalciferol supplementation at 6000 IU daily significantly increased serum 25(OH)D concentrations in the intervention group (mean 36.75 ± 7.23 ng/mL at week 5) compared to controls (29.58 ± 5.29 ng/mL, P<0.01), reaching sufficiency levels (>30 ng/mL) in most participants.
• Mean wound healing time was substantially shorter in the intervention group (15.59 ± 6.27 days) versus the control group (26.16 ± 12.70 days, P<0.01), indicating accelerated recovery across various chronic wound types.
• The intervention group exhibited higher wound area reduction rates (median 100% by week 3) and wound depth reduction rates (median 100% by week 3) compared to controls (100% by weeks 5 and 6, respectively; P<0.05 from weeks 1-6 for area and weeks 3-5 for depth).
• PUSH scores decreased more rapidly in the intervention group (median 0 by week 3) than in controls (median 0 by week 5; P<0.05 from weeks 3-6), reflecting improved wound tissue, exudate, and overall healing.
• Supplementation was safe with no reported vitamin D toxicity symptoms, supporting its use as an adjunct to standard TIME-based wound care for patients with vitamin D deficiency.

Read full article

Keywords: oral cholecalciferol, vitamin D deficiency, chronic wound healing, serum 25(OH)D, PUSH score, Hui Zhao, Xiaokun Wu, Haiyan Li

Sinapic Acid: A Natural Boost for Diabetic Wound Healing

Summary: Researchers at Nagaland University have discovered sinapic acid, a natural antioxidant from edible plants, as a promising oral therapy for accelerating diabetic wound healing, particularly foot ulcers. Published in Nature Scientific Reports, the preclinical study in diabetic rat models showed that a low dose (20 mg/kg) significantly enhanced tissue repair, reduced oxidative stress, and improved metabolic health more effectively than higher doses, exhibiting an inverted dose-response curve. By activating the SIRT1 pathway, sinapic acid promotes angiogenesis, controls inflammation, and mitigates infection risks, offering a safe, affordable alternative to synthetic drugs with potential to cut amputation rates in resource-limited settings.

Key Highlights:

• Sinapic acid, found in fruits and vegetables, was administered orally to diabetic rats, leading to faster wound closure and better glucose control compared to controls.
• Low dose (20 mg/kg) outperformed higher (40 mg/kg), highlighting optimal dosing for clinical translation and minimizing side effects.
• Mechanisms: SIRT1 activation boosts new blood vessel formation, reduces inflammation, and counters oxidative damage central to delayed diabetic healing.
• Relevance to foot ulcers: Addresses neuropathy, poor circulation, and infection vulnerabilities, potentially reducing global diabetic amputation burdens.
• Next steps: Pilot human trials planned to confirm efficacy, positioning sinapic acid as an accessible plant-based intervention for chronic wounds.

Read full article

Keywords: sinapic acid, diabetic foot ulcers, SIRT1 pathway, natural antioxidant, wound healing compound, Rupal Dubey, Sourbh Suren Garg, Navneet Khurana

University Health Opens Clinic Aimed at Preventing Diabetic Amputations

Summary: University Health has launched a new Limb Salvage Clinic at the Texas Diabetes Institute in San Antonio to combat the rising tide of diabetes-related foot ulcers and amputations in Bexar County, where 15% of residents (up to 239,000 people) live with diabetes—higher than state and national averages. Led by interventional cardiologist Dr. Anand Prasad, the clinic offers comprehensive, one-stop services including podiatric wound monitoring, debridement, minimally invasive vascular procedures like angioplasty with dissolvable stents, and preventive care for peripheral artery disease (PAD) and neuropathy. Highlighting the urgency, the facility treated its first patient, 50-year-old Charlie Treviño, a diabetic construction worker with a recent foot ulcer post-heart surgery, aiming to restore blood flow and promote healing to avoid limb loss. By integrating podiatry, cardiology, and vascular surgery, the clinic addresses rapid wound progression—potentially infecting within days—and underserved needs in high-risk Hispanic and Black communities, targeting 20+ patients weekly for faster, multidisciplinary intervention.

Key Highlights:

• Bexar County diabetes prevalence: 15% (239,000 people), with some zip codes over 20%; lifetime foot ulcer risk for diabetics: 25-33%; U.S. annual diabetic amputations: >100,000.
• Clinic location: Texas Diabetes Institute, South Zarzamora Street, San Antonio; services include wound debridement, offloading, vascular angioplasty, and collaborative podiatry-cardiology care.
• First patient case: Charlie Treviño received immediate podiatric evaluation and planned stent procedure to improve leg/foot circulation, emphasizing early intervention for non-healing ulcers.
• Expert insights: Dr. Michael Sobolevsky calls San Antonio the “diabetic foot capital of the world”; Dr. Ivana Akinyeye stresses single-visit efficiency as “time is of the essence” for ulcers.
• Broader impact: Addresses PAD/neuropathy causing poor healing; aims to reduce lifelong disability in underserved areas, with plans for vascular surgery integration and expanded staffing.

Read full article

Keywords: limb salvage clinic, diabetic foot ulcers, amputation prevention, peripheral artery disease, multidisciplinary wound care

Buruli Ulcer: Understanding the Silent Flesh-Eating Disease

Summary: This article explores Buruli ulcer, a debilitating neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium ulcerans, often dubbed the “silent flesh-eating disease” due to its painless destruction of skin and soft tissues. Prevalent in West Africa, including Nigeria, it affects over 3,000 cases annually worldwide, leading to severe ulcers that can cause permanent disability if untreated. The piece emphasizes early detection, a combination of antibiotics (rifampicin and clarithromycin), and surgical debridement for wound care, alongside prevention through insect repellent, protective clothing, and community surveillance to curb outbreaks in contaminated aquatic environments.

Key Highlights:

• Transmission occurs via contact with contaminated water or mud, possibly through insect vectors like water bugs; no person-to-person spread.
• Symptoms start as painless nodules or plaques, progressing to large ulcers with undermined edges, often on legs or arms, mimicking other skin conditions.
• Diagnosis involves clinical assessment, PCR testing, or swab cultures; early intervention prevents progression to bone involvement or secondary infections.
• Treatment combines 8-week oral antibiotics with wound dressings and surgery for extensive cases; WHO recommends rifampicin-clarithromycin regimen for 100% cure if caught early.
• Prevention focuses on avoiding stagnant water, using DEET repellents, and early reporting; Nigeria reported 1,200 cases in 2023, underscoring need for awareness in rural areas.

Read full article

Keywords: buruli ulcer, flesh-eating disease, mycobacterium ulcerans, neglected tropical disease, wound debridement

Acellular Wound Matrix for Mohs Surgical Reconstruction: Foot Case Series

Summary: This retrospective case series reviews 29 patients treated with an acellular wound matrix (Dermal Regeneration Template, DRT) immediately after Mohs micrographic surgery for foot skin lesions, primarily melanoma (65.5%), from 2018-2023 at UT Southwestern. Average wound size was 4.4 cm × 4.0 cm × 0.8 cm, with 75.9% achieving complete epithelialization in 139 days via secondary intention or adjunct split-thickness skin grafting (STSG) after 4-6 weeks. Complications occurred in 27.6% (infections and recurrences most common), higher than typical Mohs rates due to foot anatomy, but all patients returned to pre-op function without revisions. The approach preserved weight-bearing capacity, highlighting DRT’s role in complex dermatologic foot reconstruction amid smaller margins to maintain mobility.

Key Highlights:

• Average patient age 61.3 years; 58.6% female; 34.5% lesions on toes, emphasizing high-risk sites for melanoma with poor prognosis.
• DRT sutured post-resection, followed by offloading (NPWT/splint) and STSG in 91% of adjunct procedures, promoting neodermis formation.
• Healing success in 22 patients (75.9%), with average 140.8 days to full activity; no vascular assessments, but outcomes comparable to diabetic foot literature.
• Complications: 13.8% infections, 13.8% recurrences, 3.4% graft failure; foot-specific challenges like folds and pressure noted, requiring expert technique.
• Cost analysis: ~$39,362 self-pay per patient (visits, surgeries, NPWT); supports DRT as viable for functional preservation in Mohs foot cases.

Read full article

Keywords: acellular wound matrix, Mohs reconstruction, foot melanoma, DRT, dermatologic surgery, Elizabeth A Ansert, James F Thornton, Amy Du

Challenging the Parabola Paradigm Post-Transmetatarsal Amputation

Summary: This oral abstract presented at the 2025 APMA National conference, led by Craig J. Verdin, DPM, reevaluates the longstanding “parabola paradigm” in post-transmetatarsal amputation (TMA) wound care for diabetic foot infections/gangrene. Analyzing 57 unilateral TMA patients retrospectively, the study substratifies residual parabolas (Types 1-4 per Bik et al.) and lengths (>50% preoperative), assessing impacts on complications and patient-reported outcomes (PROMs: LEFS for function, SF-12 for QoL). Findings reveal no significant ties to major complications or PROMs, only a weak correlation between unbalanced Type 4 parabolas and minor issues. It promotes function-driven, balanced parabolas over dogmatic length replication, and explores ray-preserving TMA variants for enhanced biomechanics, healing, and quality of life in podiatry limb salvage.

Key Highlights:

• Retrospective review of 57 TMAs at Georgetown University Hospital (2 years); no effect of parabola shape/length on major complications or PROMs/QoL.
• Weak correlation (p<0.05) between Type 4 (longer second metatarsal) and minor complications like reulceration due to uneven pressure.
• Historical McKittrick paradigm (1949) prioritizes Type 1 parabolas for propulsion; study calls it outdated, favoring balanced designs.
• Alternatives: Ray-preserving TMAs (e.g., first ray or first two rays per Suh et al., 2019) may optimize musculotendinous function and wound durability.
• Implications: Shift to PROMs/gait assessments in diabetic foot care for better outcomes, reducing reamputation risks in wound healing.

Read full article

Keywords: transmetatarsal amputation, residual parabola, diabetic foot amputation, limb salvage, ray-preserving TMA, Craig J Verdin, Ply C, Lava C

Dehydrated Amnion Chorion Membrane vs. Standard Care for Diabetic Foot Ulcers: RCT Results

Summary: This prospective, multicentre, randomised controlled trial evaluated dehydrated Amnion Chorion Membrane (dACM) plus standard of care (SoC) versus SoC alone in 218 patients with complex diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) extending into dermis or deeper. Over 12 weeks, dACM significantly increased wound closure frequency (50% vs. 35% at week 12, p=0.04), with a 48% higher probability (HR 1.48) and median time to closure of 84 days versus not achieved in SoC (≥50% unhealed). Cox and Kaplan-Meier analyses confirmed benefits in this challenging population, positioning dACM as an effective adjunct for promoting granulation, reducing inflammation, and accelerating healing in chronic DFUs.

Key Highlights:

• At week 12, 50% of dACM-treated DFUs achieved complete wound closure (CWC) vs. 35% in SoC, with superiority from week 4 (12% vs. 8%).
• Hazard ratio of 1.48 indicated 48% greater likelihood of healing with dACM, adjusted for wound duration and area.
• Median time to CWC: 84 days for dACM vs. not achieved in SoC group (p=0.04 via Kaplan-Meier).
• Well-tolerated with no new safety concerns; applicable to deep, chronic DFUs in high-comorbidity patients.
• Implications: dACM enhances outcomes in real-world complex cases, supporting its use beyond standard therapies.

Read full article

Keywords: dehydrated amnion chorion membrane, dACM, diabetic foot ulcers, placental allograft, wound closure RCT, Shawn M Cazzell, Joseph Caporusso, Dean Vayser

Unlocking Real-World Insights: The US Wound Registry’s Guide to Bias-Free Data in Wound Care

Summary: This white paper from the US Wound Registry (USWR), a non-profit patient registry since 2005 and CMS-recognized Qualified Clinical Data Registry since 2014, introduces the ABCs (Analysis of Bias Criteria) Checklist for minimizing bias in wound care registries and EHRs. It addresses the challenges of chronic wounds affecting 8.2 million Medicare patients at a cost of up to $96.8 billion annually, emphasizing real-world data from complex patients excluded from trials. The checklist, adapted from STROBE and wound-specific guidelines, standardizes reporting on study design, data collection, participant selection, variables, statistical methods, results, and discussion to improve outcome accuracy, support quality care, and inform policy. By ensuring transparent, ethical data handling, it aims to “Find What Works for Chronic Wounds” through reliable EHR-derived insights.

Key Highlights:

• Prevalence and Costs: Chronic wounds impact 15% of Medicare patients (8.2 million), costing $96.8 billion yearly, with surgical dehiscence and unnamed wounds from comorbidities being most common, as wounds are symptoms rather than diseases.
• Registry Role: USWR collects real-world EHR data since 2005 to evaluate treatments for patients with 6+ comorbidities and 10 medications, excluded from RCTs, enabling evidence-based improvements in wound care outcomes.
• Bias Minimization in Methods: Checklist requires detailing settings, EHR types (e.g., certification levels), participant inclusion (e.g., % of patients/wounds captured), wound types via ICD codes, and data sources to limit selection and systematic errors.
• Variables and Outcomes: Defines outcomes like healing rates (e.g., 1-year timeframe), confounders (e.g., ischemia, amputations), and standard-of-care factors (e.g., offloading frequency) to ensure fair comparisons and control for care variations.
• Data Reporting and Ethics: Mandates structured data entry, IRB oversight, deidentification protocols, and methods to prevent recall bias, ensuring contemporaneous clinician-assessed outcomes over post-hoc imputation.
• Statistical and Results Standards: Includes risk stratification models, cohort matching, sensitivity analyses, flow diagrams, and adjusted estimates (e.g., 95% CI) with confounder details for unbiased healing and patient outcome reporting.
• Implications for Care: Promotes generalizable, reliable findings to enhance clinical decision-making, benchmarking, and policy, with limitations discussed to maintain ethical standards in real-world wound research.

Read full article

Keywords: wound registry, EHR data, bias criteria, real-world evidence, chronic wound outcomes

LearnSkin Webinars: Bridging Dermatology and Integrative Skin Care

Summary: LearnSkin, a platform by dermatologists and integrative medicine experts, hosts free, non-CME webinars to advance clinical skills in skin health, blending Western and Eastern approaches. Focused on topics like atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, bullous pemphigoid, and post-procedure recovery, these sessions offer practical strategies for managing inflammatory skin conditions that often involve barrier dysfunction and healing challenges. Upcoming events in 2025 emphasize personalized care, psychosocial impacts, and novel therapies, ideal for wound care professionals addressing chronic skin breakdowns or adjunctive dermatologic issues.

Key Highlights:

• Upcoming: “Chronic Hand Eczema: A New Day Is at Hand” (Sept 30, 2025) explores barrier dysfunction and therapies for CHE, relevant for chronic skin wounds.
• Upcoming: “Topical Approach to Hair Health and Post-Procedure Care” (Feb 25, 2025) covers recovery after lasers/microneedling, including growth factors for wound-like healing.
• Past: “Exploring Bullous Pemphigoid: Bridging Research and Clinical Practice” (Oct 22, 2024) discusses blistering management, directly applicable to erosive wounds.
• All webinars are free, sponsored (e.g., by AbbVie, Lilly), and live-only for US HCPs; no recordings, fostering real-time Q&A.
• Platform mission: Inspire better patient outcomes through evidence-based education on skin conditions impacting quality of life.

Explore webinars

Keywords:
integrative dermatology, atopic dermatitis, bullous pemphigoid, post-procedure care, skin barrier dysfunction

Biomaterials: Revolutionizing Wound Healing, Tissue Regeneration, and the Future of Medicine

Summary: This article by Miss Prachee Bhartiya delves into the transformative role of biomaterials—natural, synthetic, or composite substances engineered for biocompatibility—in modern medicine, particularly in wound healing and tissue regeneration. Highlighting their applications in creating advanced hydrogels for chronic wounds, bioactive dressings for post-surgical sites, and scaffolds for organ repair, it discusses how these materials accelerate recovery, reduce infections, and promote natural tissue growth. The piece also addresses challenges like sustainability and ethics, while envisioning future “smart” biomaterials integrated with AI for personalized, proactive healing in U.S. healthcare.

Key Highlights:

• Biomaterials like hydrogels and bioactive dressings provide structural support and release growth factors/antibiotics directly into wounds, speeding healing for burns, chronic ulcers, and surgical incisions.
• In tissue regeneration, biodegradable polymer scaffolds serve as frameworks for cell growth, dissolving as new tissue forms, with applications in bone repair, nerve regeneration, and cardiovascular grafts.
• Examples include titanium alloys for orthopedic implants, ceramics for dental bone regeneration, and polymers for controlled drug delivery to optimize wound care outcomes.
• Future innovations: “Smart” biomaterials that respond to inflammation or infection (e.g., color-changing dressings), 3D bioprinting for custom tissues, and eco-friendly materials from renewable sources like algae.
• Challenges: Ensuring biocompatibility to avoid rejection, rigorous FDA testing, and sustainable production; ethical focus on transparency and public trust in regenerative advancements.

Read full article

Keywords:
biomaterials,
wound healing,
tissue regeneration,
smart biomaterials,
regenerative medicine,
Miss Prachee Bhartiya

An Innovative Mesh-Free Healing Matrix Dressing: Clinical Trial Results

Summary: This four-week prospective multicentre clinical trial evaluated the performance and local tolerance of UrgoFit, an innovative mesh-free contact layer dressing made of lipidocolloid technology (TLC), in 78 adults with granulating acute, chronic, or epidermolysis bullosa (EB) wounds. Across 23 French centres, the dressing achieved a median relative wound area reduction (RWAR) of 98.2% at week 4, with 49% complete closure (median time-to-heal 16.5 days). It excelled in conformability (94% very good/good), ease of use (96% easy application, 95-98% easy removal), and pain reduction (95% painless changes, p<0.0001 vs. prior dressings), while preserving new tissue in 100% of cases. Seven non-serious adverse events occurred, confirming strong safety for managing irregular wound beds without mesh-related complications.

Key Highlights:

• Median RWAR 98.2% at week 4 across wound types (61.5-100.0%), with 59% closure in acute wounds, 60% in EB lesions, and 16% in chronic wounds.
• Half of leg ulcers achieved ≥40% RWAR at week 4, predicting complete healing by week 24 per established benchmarks.
• Dressings changed every 2±1 days (max 10 days), with 94% conformability to wound beds, including challenging finger/hand sites.
• Removal painless in 95% of cases from week 1, significantly better than previous dressings, enhancing patient comfort and adherence.
• Well-tolerated with only seven non-serious AEs; aligns with TLC evidence but adds conformability benefits for complex wounds.

Read full article

Keywords:
mesh-free dressing,
TLC healing matrix,
chronic wound management,
UrgoFit,
wound conformability,
Sylvie Meaume,
Franck Duteille,
Emmanuelle Bourrat

Topical Application of miR-200b-3p by Poloxamer 407-Based Hydrogel Accelerates Diabetic Wound Healing

Summary: This study evaluates the topical delivery of miR-200b-3p and miR-146a-5p mimics via poloxamer 407 hydrogel in a db/db mouse model of diabetic wounds, comparing efficacy against hydrogel alone or negative control. miR-200b-3p hydrogel significantly accelerated wound closure (71.5% reduction by day 14 vs. 32.8% for hydrogel), enhanced granulation thickness, and improved body weight maintenance. Mechanisms include downregulation of oxidative stress (Nox1/4, HO-1), inflammation (IL-6, IL-1β), senescence (OGT, p21, p53), and upregulation of collagen (Col1α2), alongside reduced macrophage infiltration (CD68) and increased angiogenesis (CD31). miR-200b-3p showed superior multilevel pro-healing effects over miR-146a-5p, suggesting its potential as an adjuvant for diabetic foot ulcers.

Key Highlights:

• miR-200b-3p hydrogel reduced wound area to 28.5% of baseline by day 14 (vs. 67.2% for hydrogel alone), with healing starting by day 6.
• Gene expression: Upregulated Col1α2 (1.553-fold); downregulated Nox1 (0.283-fold), IL-6 (0.255-fold), p21 (0.364-fold), and p53 (0.643-fold).
• Histology: Increased CD31 (1.993-fold) for angiogenesis; decreased CD68 (0.646-fold) for reduced inflammation in miR-200b-3p group.
• miR-200b-3p excelled in anti-ROS, anti-senescence (p53-dependent), and pro-angiogenic effects compared to miR-146a-5p.
• Topical application every 2 days proved feasible, with poloxamer 407 ensuring sustained release and biocompatibility.

Read full article

Keywords:
miR-200b-3p,
poloxamer 407 hydrogel,
diabetic wound healing,
anti-senescence therapy,
wound healing innovation,
Wan-Yu Lo,
Cian-Huei Sin,
Huang-Joe Wang

Phase 2 Results: PDA-002 Cell Therapy Advances DFU Treatment in PAD Patients

Full Press Release:

Celularity Announces Peer-Reviewed Publication of Phase 2 Clinical Trial Results Demonstrating the Safety and Efficacy of Human Placenta-Derived Cells (PDA-002) for Diabetic Foot Ulcers Complicated by Peripheral Artery Disease

First-in-class regenerative therapy for diabetic foot ulcers complicated by peripheral artery disease

Celularity PDA-002 achieved durable wound healing with just two intramuscular doses

As a qualified stem cell therapy under Florida statute (§ 458.3245), effective July 1, 2025 authorizing use in wound care, orthopedics, and pain management, PDA-002 may offer licensed Florida physicians an important new tool in treating DFU patients.

FLORHAM PARK, N.J., Oct. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Celularity Inc. (Nasdaq: CELU) (“Celularity”), a regenerative and cellular medicine company addressing age-related and degenerative diseases, today announced the publication of its Phase 2 study titled “Human Placenta-Derived Cells (PDA-002) in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Patients With and Without Peripheral Artery Disease: A Phase 2 Multi-Center, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial,” in the International Wound Journal. Results of this study demonstrated safety and efficacy in a complex type of serious wounds in the setting of diabetes and peripheral vascular disease. Celularity’s Chairman and CEO, Robert J. Hariri, M.D., Ph.D., also commented on PDA-002 as a stem cell therapy which qualifies under a recently enacted Florida law expanding access in the state to stem cell therapies not yet approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Approximately two million individuals in the United States are affected each year by diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), nearly half of whom have coexisting peripheral artery disease (PAD). DFU complicated by PAD represents one of the most difficult and costly challenges in wound care. Currently, there are no U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved therapies specifically indicated for DFU with PAD. The estimated annual economic burden of treating DFU alone exceeds $9 billion in the United States. The presence of PAD significantly compromises lower-extremity perfusion, leading to chronic tissue ischemia, impaired angiogenesis, and delayed wound repair. PAD-associated DFUs are further characterized by persistent inflammation, altered immune response, and diminished responsiveness to standard wound care interventions. Despite five FDA-approved DFU therapies, none are currently approved for DFU complicated by PAD, underscoring the need for novel regenerative approaches that restore tissue perfusion and accelerate wound closure.

The published study included 159 adult patients with chronic diabetic foot ulcers (both with and without PAD) and was conducted across 35 clinical sites in the United States. Participants received two intramuscular doses of either PDA-002, a placenta-derived cell therapy developed by Celularity, at one of three dosage levels (3 × 10⁶, 10 × 10⁶, or 30 × 10⁶ cells), or a placebo. The primary efficacy endpoint was the number of patients who achieved complete wound closure within three months with healing that remained intact for at least four additional weeks—a more rigorous measure of durability than the standard FDA definition, which requires only two weeks of durable healing.

In patients with PAD, the highest rates of wound closure were observed with the lowest PDA-002 dose (3 × 10⁶ cells), where 38.5% of ulcers completely healed versus 22.6% in the placebo group. The data also showed faster and more sustained healing in treated patients along with fewer cases of new gangrene and foot infections compared to those who received a placebo. Across all groups, PDA-002 was well tolerated, with no serious side effects linked to the treatment. This favorable safety profile remained consistent through two years of follow-up.

The study’s findings highlight the regenerative and angiogenic potential of PDA-002 in promoting durable ulcer closure in patients with DFUs complicated by PAD, using only two doses and no retreatment.

” The publication of our PDA-002 Phase 2 results in the International Wound Journal is a significant milestone for Celularity, and importantly, for patients battling diabetic foot ulcers complicated by peripheral artery disease, which is a patient population with a critical unmet medical need and limited treatment options,” said Robert J. Hariri, M.D., Ph.D., Celularity’s Chairman and CEO. “Our data show that our investigational therapy, PDA-002, a placenta-derived, mesenchymal stromal-like cell therapy, can drive meaningful wound closure rates, reduce serious complications, and do so with a favorable safety profile. We believe PDA-002 has potential to transform the future of ischemic wound care, and these findings position us for a confirmatory Phase 3 trial aimed at delivering the first FDA-approved targeted therapy in regenerative wound care for DFU/PAD patients with this urgent and unmet need. We also believe these clinical results support additional development in clinical indications where underlying microvascular disease is a contributing factor.”

Commenting on recent developments, Dr. Hariri said, “Celularity is actively assessing opportunities to apply these findings in jurisdictions such as Florida, where PDA-002 qualifies as a stem cell therapy under a new law authorizing use by Florida physicians in wound care, orthopedics, and pain management.” Diabetes afflicts an estimated 2.1 million Floridians according to a January 2025 Florida Diabetes Advisory Council report, which found that the percentage of adult Floridians diagnosed with diabetes grew by almost half since 2002 and is now above the national average (12.2% versus 11.6%). That percentage jumps to 25.4% among Floridians ages 65 and older, or some 1.25 million people, a fifth to a third of whom will go on to develop a DFU, for which the 5-year recurrence rate is 65%. “By unleashing promising stem cell therapies like PDA-002, Florida has given physicians a potentially important new tool for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers, a serious condition that afflicts over a quarter of a million Floridians ages 65 and older,” said Dr. Hariri.

About PDA-002

PDA-002 is a mesenchymal stromal-like cell therapy product derived from the postpartum placenta. These cells possess potent angiogenic, immunomodulatory, and tissue-repair properties, offering a novel approach to wound healing in patients for whom current therapies are inadequate.

About Celularity Inc.

Celularity Inc. (Nasdaq: CELU) is a regenerative and aging-related cellular medicine company developing, manufacturing, and commercializing advanced biomaterial products and allogeneic and autologous cell therapies, all derived from the postpartum placenta. Celularity believes that by harnessing the placenta’s unique biology and ready availability, it can develop therapeutic solutions that address significant unmet global needs for effective, accessible, and affordable therapies targeting fundamental aging mechanisms, such as cellular senescence, age-related chronic inflammation, and tissue degeneration. For more information about Celularity and its cutting-edge regenerative medicine solutions, please visit www.celularity.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding: (i) our future sales or sales growth; (ii) our expectations for future financial results, including levels of net sales; (iii) our expectations regarding new products, including our 510K products; and (iv) future demand for our products. All statements other than statements of historical facts are “forward-looking statements,” including those relating to future events. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “can,” “could,” “continue,” “expect,” “improving,” “may,” “observed,” “potential,” “promise,” “should,” and similar expressions (as well as other words or expressions referencing future events, conditions or circumstances). Forward-looking statements are based on Celularity’s current expectations and assumptions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements, which are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements, including those risk factors set forth under the caption “Risk Factors” in Celularity’s annual report on Form 10-K and Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on May 8, 2025 and May 21, 2025, respectively, and other filings with the SEC. If any of these risks materialize or underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that Celularity does not presently know, or that Celularity currently believes are immaterial, that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, these forward-looking statements reflect Celularity’s current expectations, plans, or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this communication. Subsequent events and developments could cause assessments to change. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Celularity’s views as of any subsequent date, and Celularity undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained herein, whether because of any new information, future events, changed circumstances, or otherwise, except as otherwise required by law.

Carlos Ramirez

Senior Vice President, Celularity Inc.

Carlos.ramirez@celularity.com

(908) 845-4181

Key Highlights:

• Trial enrolled 159 adults with chronic DFUs (with/without PAD) across 35 U.S. sites; primary endpoint was complete closure within 3 months, sustained for 4 weeks.
• In PAD patients, low-dose PDA-002 achieved 38.5% healing vs. 22.6% placebo, with quicker onset and durability, requiring no retreatment.
• Therapy reduced new gangrene and foot infections, showcasing regenerative benefits through enhanced perfusion and reduced inflammation.
• Safety profile excellent: well-tolerated with no treatment-related serious adverse events over 2-year follow-up.
• Implications include potential FDA approval via Phase 3; now qualified for use in Florida under new stem cell laws for ~2.1M diabetic residents.

Read full article

Keywords:
diabetic foot ulcers,
PDA-002,
peripheral artery disease,
placenta-derived cells,
regenerative wound therapy

Staphylococcus Aureus Quorum Sensing: Inhibiting Keratinocyte Lipid Enzymes and Delaying Wound Repair

Summary: This study from UC San Diego, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, elucidates how Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA strains, delays wound healing through its accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum-sensing system. In mouse and human models, agr activation during infection suppresses key metabolic genes in keratinocytes—particularly those involved in lipid enzyme pathways—impairing skin barrier regeneration and promoting chronic wounds. Disrupting quorum sensing restores normal healing and metabolic function without eradicating bacteria, highlighting antibiotic-free strategies to combat resistance while preserving beneficial skin microbiota like Staphylococcus hominis, which supports repair.

Key Highlights:

• S. aureus quorum sensing coordinates virulence factors that inhibit keratinocyte lipid metabolism, dramatically slowing wound closure even at low bacterial loads.
• In wound models, agr disruption accelerated healing to uninfected levels, demonstrating the system’s direct role in metabolic suppression and tissue repair delays.
• Harmless staphylococci (e.g., S. hominis) enhance keratinocyte activity and do not impair healing, emphasizing the wound microbiome’s protective potential.
• Findings apply to MRSA-driven infections in surgical sites, offering pathways for therapies that “silence” bacterial communication to reduce hospital-acquired complications.
• Therapeutic promise: Quorum-sensing inhibitors could transform chronic wound care by promoting regeneration without antibiotics, addressing global resistance challenges.

Read full article

Keywords:
Staphylococcus aureus,
quorum sensing,
keratinocyte metabolism,
antibiotic-free therapy,
chronic wound innovation

Declining Trends: Incidence, Hospitalization, and Mortality in First-Ever Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Summary: This retrospective analysis from the UK’s CPRD GOLD primary care database (2007–2017) examines the incidence, hospitalization, and mortality trends for first-ever diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) in 129,624 people with diabetes. For type 2 diabetes, the mean incidence rate was 2.5 per 1,000 person-years, with significant annual declines (IRR 0.97), alongside reduced hospitalization (8.2% average, OR 0.89) and 1-year mortality (11.7%, OR 0.94). No similar improvements were seen in type 1 diabetes (incidence 1.6 per 1,000 person-years). These findings underscore advancements in primary prevention and wound care for type 2 diabetes, enabling better evaluation of DFU management efforts.

Key Highlights:

• Incidence of first DFUs: 2.5 [95% CI: 2.1–2.9] per 1,000 person-years in type 2 diabetes; declined by 3% annually (IRR 0.97 [0.96–0.99]).
• Type 1 diabetes showed stable incidence at 1.6 [1.3–1.9] per 1,000 person-years (IRR 0.96 [0.89–1.04]).
• Hospitalization rates for type 2 diabetes averaged 8.2% [SD 4.7], with a 11% annual decline (OR 0.89 [0.84–0.94]).
• One-year all-cause mortality for type 2 diabetes was 11.7% [SD 2.2], decreasing 6% annually (OR 0.94 [0.89–0.99]).
• Implications: Improved primary care prevention reduces DFU burden; population data essential for ongoing wound care evaluations.

Read full article

Keywords:
diabetic foot ulcers,
DFU incidence,
type 2 diabetes,
DFU mortality,
wound prevention

An Innovative Mesh-Free Healing Matrix Dressing: Clinical Trial Insights

Summary: This clinical trial assesses the performance and local tolerance of an innovative mesh-free contact layer dressing impregnated with a TLC-NOSF healing matrix, designed for enhanced conformability in irregular chronic wounds. Conducted by Sylvie Meaume and colleagues, the study involved patients with leg ulcers and pressure ulcers, showing the dressing promotes granulation, reduces inflammation, and accelerates healing while being well-tolerated with minimal adverse events. The mesh-free design improves adherence to wound beds without fragments, addressing limitations of traditional meshed dressings and supporting cost-effective outpatient care.

Key Highlights:

• The TLC-NOSF matrix, combining lipido-colloid technology with sucrose octasulfate, significantly reduces protease activity and biofilm formation for faster closure.
• High conformability allows intimate contact with complex wound topographies, minimizing dead space and enhancing exudate management.
• Patient-reported outcomes indicate high acceptance due to pain-free removal and comfort, with 95%+ satisfaction in usability.
• No mesh-related complications like retained fragments; well-tolerated in sensitive skin, suitable for venous, arterial, and diabetic ulcers.
• Results support broader adoption in chronic wound protocols, potentially reducing dressing changes and healthcare costs.

Read full article

Keywords:
mesh-free dressing,
TLC-NOSF,
chronic wound management,
conformable healing matrix,
wound healing innovation

Predicting Diabetic Neuropathy: ML Model for Early Detection in T2DM

Summary: This retrospective study analyzes data from 1,001 T2DM patients in Xinjiang, China, to build and validate machine learning models for diagnosing diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a key precursor to foot ulcers and amputations. Using SVM-RFE and LASSO, seven risk factors (age, diabetes duration, 2hPG, LDL-C, blood urea, eGFR, urinary uric acid) were identified. The Random Forest model excelled with an external validation AUC of 0.953, supporting precision screening in high-risk regions to mitigate wound complications through timely interventions.

Key Highlights:

• Random Forest model achieved top performance (training AUC 1.000, external AUC 0.953), outperforming GBM, GLM, and SVM for DPN prediction.
• Key risks include age (≥50 years elevates odds), prolonged diabetes duration, and renal markers like reduced eGFR, linking to neuropathy progression.
• External validation on 123 patients confirmed accuracy (86.3%), sensitivity (93.0%), and no overfitting via bootstrapping and calibration.
• Model addresses Xinjiang’s high DPN prevalence, enabling early detection to prevent painless ulcers and non-traumatic amputations in T2DM.
• Limitations: Single-center data; future needs include multicenter trials and integration of genetic/dietary factors for broader applicability.

Read full article

Keywords:
diabetic peripheral neuropathy,
DPN prediction,
machine learning diabetes,
T2DM complications,
foot ulcer prevention

AI and Pressure Sensors: Saving the NHS Billions on Bedsore Treatment

Summary: A collaborative feasibility study led by the University of South Wales (USW), in partnership with Graphene Trace Ltd and Cardiff & Vale University Health Board, is developing graphene-based e-textile pressure sensors integrated with AI to enable real-time monitoring and prediction of pressure ulcers (bedsores). Funded by £94,000 from the Henry Royce Institute, the project aims to transform prevention in clinical and community settings, where over 700,000 UK patients are affected annually at a cost of up to £2.1 billion to the NHS. By analyzing postures and delivering personalized alerts, this low-cost, scalable technology could drastically reduce avoidable ulcers, enhancing wound care efficiency and patient outcomes.

Key Highlights:

• Project involves thin, flexible graphene sensors embedded in seating/bedding for continuous pressure mapping, outperforming bulky commercial systems in affordability and scalability.
• AI/ML models classify postures, predict risks, and provide real-time interventions, building on USW’s expertise in CNNs for sitting posture analysis and postural scoring.
• Pressure ulcers affect >700,000 people yearly in UK healthcare, with many preventable; current NHS costs reach £2.1B annually due to prolonged healing and complications.
• Potential savings: Billions of pounds through proactive prevention, reducing treatment burdens and improving quality of life for at-risk patients with mobility issues.
• Expert insights emphasize clinical-economic impact: Prof. Colin Gibson notes transformational potential for care quality; Prof. Janusz Kulon highlights life-changing AI-fabric integration.

Read full article

Keywords:
pressure ulcers,
AI prevention,
graphene sensors,
bedsores,
wound care innovation

Clinical Use of DermaBind TL/FM: Advancing Hard-to-Heal Wound Care

Summary: This retrospective case series details real-world clinical experiences with DermaBind TL and FM, dehydrated intact placental membrane allografts from HealthTech Wound Care, applied to hard-to-heal chronic wounds after 30 days of standard therapy failure. Preserving all native layers including the spongy layer with growth factors like hyaluronic acid, TGF-β1, HGF, and IL-1ra, these allografts promote bottom-up healing by enhancing blood flow, facilitating debridement of necrotic tissue, and stimulating granulation and epithelialization. Results indicate faster closure (4-6 weeks vs. national 12-week average), fewer applications needed, and high patient satisfaction, positioning DermaBind as a cost-effective, room-temperature stable option for DFUs, VLUs, and pressure ulcers without antibiotics or freezing.

Key Highlights:

• DermaBind’s proprietary preservation retains comprehensive collagen matrix, glycoconjugates, and cytokines for superior regenerative support in stalled wounds.
• Applied as a protective covering for partial/full-thickness wounds, it outperforms alternatives like Epifix and collagen sponges in healing speed and cost-efficiency.
• Clinical outcomes show complete epithelization in 4-6 weeks, reducing treatment burden and enhancing functional recovery in chronic cases.
• Safe for Medicare/Medicaid coverage in VLUs/DFUs; 3-year shelf life at room temperature simplifies logistics for outpatient and long-term care.
• Emphasizes documented medical necessity and wound measurements for optimal reimbursement and personalized application protocols.

Read full article

Keywords:
DermaBind,
placental allograft,
hard-to-heal wounds,
chronic wound care,
wound healing innovation

Interactive Reconstructive Masterclass: Getting the Best Patient Outcomes

Summary: This free, 90-minute interactive webinar, hosted by Wound Masterclass and supported by Integra Tissue Technologies, dives into advanced reconstructive strategies for lower limb wounds, including trauma, chronic ulcers, and surgical defects. Chaired by Dr. Negin Shamsian with global experts Dr. Jonathan Johnson and Dr. Marino Ciliberti, the session covers preoperative assessment, wound bed preparation, application of skin substitutes and UBM extracellular matrix scaffolds, postoperative care, and complication management. Through an interactive patient clinic and evidence-based discussions, participants gain practical tools to integrate these techniques for faster healing, reduced scarring, and improved functional outcomes. Accredited for EBAC credits (convertible to AMA PRA Category 1).

Key Highlights:

• Focus on indications for reconstructive options like skin grafting, muscle flaps, and UBM scaffolds in particulate/sheet forms for complex lower limb wounds.
• Preoperative planning emphasizes patient selection, vascularity assessment, infection control, and tailoring products to wound profiles (size, depth, location).
• Surgical techniques include debridement, scaffold application with flaps/grafts/NPWT, and postoperative dressing protocols to optimize granulation and closure.
• Interactive patient clinic demonstrates hands-on treatment planning and real-world implementation of UBM scaffolds in trauma and chronic cases.
• Panel Q&A addresses complications like infection/seroma, non-healing strategies, and evidence from literature on scaffold efficacy for better outcomes.

Register for the event

Keywords:
lower limb reconstruction,
UBM scaffolds,
skin substitutes,
wound bed preparation,
reconstructive wound care

Breathable Revolution: Medical Non-Woven Tape Transforming Wound Care

Summary: This article highlights the transformative role of medical non-woven tape in wound care, driven by innovations from Hangzhou Econ Nonwoven New Materials Co., Ltd. Engineered with ultra-soft viscose fibers and patented low-trauma adhesives, the tape offers enhanced breathability to prevent maceration, hypoallergenic properties to minimize allergies, and biodegradability for eco-friendly disposal. Outperforming traditional woven tapes, it accelerates healing in post-surgical, geriatric, pediatric, and sports medicine applications, meeting surging global demand for smart, patient-centered materials that reduce pain and complications.

Key Highlights:

• Superior breathability from viscose fibers prevents moisture buildup, reducing maceration risks and speeding healing in sensitive skin areas.
• Low-trauma adhesive ensures secure bonding yet painless removal, ideal for fragile or hairy skin in pediatric oncology and sports injuries.
• Hypoallergenic design lowers infection and irritation risks, making it suitable for chronic wound management in geriatric care.
• Hydrolytic degradation technology allows 100% biodegradability, supporting sustainable practices without compromising performance.
• Global market shift toward non-woven solutions emphasizes clinical efficiency, with clinicians adopting for faster recovery and fewer interventions.

Read full article

Keywords:
medical non-woven tape,
breathable wound dressings,
hypoallergenic tape,
low-trauma adhesive,
wound care innovation

Harnessing Molecular Medicine to Accelerate Wound Healing

Full Press Release: TAICEND – advancing the science of wound healing to cut recovery time by more than half.

KAOHSIUNG CITY, Taiwan, Oct. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TAICEND will present its five major wound healing product series at the 2025 MEDICA Fair in Germany, including the Postoperative Care Series, Acute & Chronic Wound Series, Pressure Relief Series, Skin Protection & Prevention Series, and the Trauma Series.

With molecular medicine as the foundation of its R&D, TAICEND integrates cellular concepts into the wound healing process, providing in-depth insights into cellular activity at each stage of healing and mapping these mechanisms to product applications. This approach highlights the company’s commitment to delivering a complete and protocol-driven clinical value in wound care.

In the Postoperative Care Series, TAICEND addresses the needs of patients recovering from procedures such as cesarean sections and orthopedic surgeries. The products help keep wounds clean, reduce the risk of infection, stabilize wound sites, alleviate pain, and minimize scar formation.

The Acute & Chronic Wound Care Series targets difficult-to-heal wounds such as pressure ulcers. TAICEND’s standardized wound healing SOP has been clinically shown to accelerate healing speed by more than 50%, making it highly suitable for home healthcare and long-term care facilities.

The Pressure Relief & Prevention Series is specifically designed to address skin injuries caused by medical devices or prolonged immobility. Common scenarios include facial pressure from BiPAP masks, skin damage from drainage tubes or nasogastric tubes, and localized pressure injuries in bedridden patients. This series provides effective solutions to redistribute pressure and minimize friction-related skin damage, offering a reliable preventive care option for patients.

The Skin Protection & Prevention Series will feature a new product for Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD) prevention and care. With a simple two-step protocol, it provides an effective and convenient solution for managing skin health in elderly and bedridden patients.

Within the Emergency & Trauma Series, TAICEND will unveil a range of products designed for emergency and battlefield applications, including emergency bandages, tourniquets, and chest seals. These products are engineered to provide rapid, life-saving interventions in critical injury scenarios, underscoring TAICEND’s dedication to delivering comprehensive wound care solutions—from clinical settings to frontline emergencies.

We warmly invite you to visit the TAICEND booth at MEDICA 2025 in Germany, where you can explore more of our products and technologies with in-depth professional insights.

Booth number: Hall6 #H66-1

Join us on this journey of innovation in wound healing!

Contact:

Tsumin Huang

+886 7 6955313

401603@email4pr.com

Cision

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/harnessing-molecular-medicine-to-accelerate-wound-healing-302586308.html

SOURCE TAICEND TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.

Copyright 2025 PR Newswire

Key Highlights:

• TAICEND’s molecular medicine-driven products accelerate wound healing by over 50%, targeting postoperative, chronic, and trauma scenarios.
• Postoperative Care Series reduces infection risk and scarring in surgical recovery.
• Acute & Chronic Wound Series ideal for pressure ulcers in home and long-term care.
• Pressure Relief Series prevents device-related injuries in immobile patients.
• New IAD prevention product in Skin Protection Series simplifies elderly skin care.
• Emergency & Trauma Series includes battlefield-ready tools like tourniquets and chest seals.

Read full article

Keywords:
molecular medicine wound healing,
postoperative wound care,
chronic wound series,
pressure ulcers,
trauma series

Advanced MRI Markers: Predicting Diabetic Foot Ulcer Healing

Summary: Presented at the American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions, this prospective observational study from Emory University explores noncontrast MRI perfusion imaging to forecast diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) healing. In 17 patients with chronic plantar forefoot ulcers, the technique measured resting tissue perfusion and microvascular reactivity using a dynamic cuff-occlusion method. Over 12 weeks, 47% of ulcers healed, with non-healers showing elevated resting perfusion but impaired microvascular function—such as delayed time-to-peak hyperemia (171 seconds vs. 101 seconds) and reduced tissue oxygen reserve (-6.5% vs. -3.2%). These findings suggest MRI markers could enhance prognostic accuracy, guiding targeted interventions to prevent amputations in cases where standard vascular assessments fall short, leaving 1 in 6 patients with unresolved wounds after a year.

Key Highlights:

• Noncontrast MRI revealed microvascular deficiencies in non-healers despite adequate macrocirculation, aligning with clinical challenges in DFU management.
• Healing occurred in 47% of chronic ulcers over 12 weeks, emphasizing the need for better predictive tools in limb preservation.
• Key metric: Time-to-peak hyperemia was markedly longer in non-healers (171s vs. 101s), indicating poorer reactive hyperemia for tissue repair.
• Tissue oxygen reserve capacity trended lower in non-healers (-6.5% vs. -3.2%), highlighting MRI’s potential to assess functional perfusion.
• Ongoing research integrates these markers with clinical data for refined models, promising personalized strategies to reduce amputation risks.

Read full article

Keywords:
diabetic foot ulcers,
MRI perfusion imaging,
microvascular reactivity,
DFU healing prediction,
limb preservation

Debridement and ALBC in DFUs: Alleviating Pain and Improving Psychological Status

Summary: This retrospective study of 103 diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) patients examines the impact of debridement combined with antibiotic-loaded bone cement (ALBC) on pain and psychological status. Using Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), it found significant reductions in pain severity and impact scores (p<0.001), as well as anxiety and depression scores (p<0.001), particularly in patients with baseline symptoms. The treatment promoted wound healing in 69.9% of cases through infection control and granulation tissue formation, highlighting its role in comprehensive DFU management that addresses both physical and mental health.

Key Highlights:

• ALBC reduced pain scores in the pain group (n=61) from baseline, though they remained higher than in the numbness group (n=42), linking higher BMI and Wagner grade III to pain.
• Anxiety scores decreased across groups (n=67 anxiety, n=36 non-anxiety), with fewer moderate/severe cases post-treatment, independent of pain relief.
• Depression scores improved significantly (n=16 depression, n=87 non-depression), correlating with better wound progression and reduced exudate.
• 69.9% of wounds showed healing with induced membrane and granulation tissue, minimizing enlargement and supporting fewer interventions.
• Baseline psychological distress predicted greater improvements after adjusting for confounders like age and ulcer grade, advocating for integrated care.

Read full article

Keywords:
diabetic foot ulcers,
debridement,
antibiotic loaded bone cement,
pain management,
psychological health

UC San Diego Study: Staphylococcus Aureus Delays Wound Healing

Summary: Researchers at UC San Diego have identified how Staphylococcus aureus, a common cause of skin infections, delays wound healing via its quorum sensing system—a bacterial communication method that suppresses host immune responses and tissue repair. Published in a leading medical journal, the study demonstrates that targeting this pathway can restore normal healing processes without antibiotics, offering a novel approach to combat antibiotic resistance while preserving beneficial skin microbiota.

Key Highlights:

• S. aureus quorum sensing coordinates virulence factors that inhibit keratinocyte metabolism and wound closure, even at low bacterial loads.
• Disrupting the accessory gene regulator (agr) system in mouse and human models accelerates healing to levels seen in uninfected wounds.
• This method targets resistant strains like MRSA without killing bacteria, reducing risks of resistance and secondary infections.
• Potential for precision therapies that enhance existing wound care by selectively silencing bacterial signals while supporting skin regeneration.
• Findings highlight the wound microbiome’s role, where harmless staphylococci may aid healing unlike pathogenic S. aureus.

Read full article

Keywords:
Staphylococcus aureus,
quorum sensing,
antibiotic free wound therapy,
MRSA management,
wound healing innovation

Targeting Bacterial Communication: Antibiotic-Free Wound Therapy

Summary: Researchers at UC San Diego have uncovered how Staphylococcus aureus delays wound healing through its quorum-sensing system, which coordinates bacterial virulence and suppresses skin cell metabolism. Published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, the study demonstrates that interfering with this bacterial communication restores normal healing even in the presence of high bacterial loads, paving the way for antibiotic-free therapies to treat chronic wounds and hospital-acquired infections without promoting resistance.

Key Highlights:

• S. aureus activates its accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum-sensing system during infection, inhibiting keratinocyte lipid enzymes essential for skin repair and dramatically slowing wound closure.
• Disrupting the agr system in mouse and human wound models restored metabolic function in keratinocytes and accelerated healing, comparable to uninfected controls.
• Harmless skin bacteria like Staphylococcus hominis do not impair healing and may even promote beneficial metabolic activity, highlighting the wound microbiome’s role.
• This approach targets MRSA and other resistant strains prevalent in surgical sites, reducing risks of bloodstream infections and pneumonia while preserving healthy bacteria.
• Potential for new therapies that “disarm” bacterial virulence without killing microbes, addressing antibiotic resistance in chronic wound care.

Read full article

Keywords:
quorum sensing,
Staphylococcus aureus,
antibiotic free therapy,
MRSA wounds,
wound healing innovation

Choice of Primary Repair in Animal Bite Wounds: A Novel Management Strategy

Summary: This article introduces a novel management strategy for animal bite wounds, primarily from dogs and cats, which pose significant risks especially to children due to potential infections from oral bacteria. Challenging the standard practice of surgical debridement followed by delayed primary closure, the study evaluates criteria for safe primary repair, demonstrating reduced infection rates, better cosmetic results, and shorter healing times in low-risk cases like facial bites with thorough irrigation and antibiotics.

Key Highlights:

• Animal bites often lead to polymicrobial infections; primary repair is feasible in clean, low-risk wounds after aggressive debridement and prophylactic antibiotics.
• Facial bites in children benefit most from primary closure to prevent scarring and functional impairment.
• Prospective evaluation shows infection rates under 2% with the novel protocol, compared to 5-10% in delayed closure.
• Emphasizes multidisciplinary assessment including wound location, depth, and patient factors for decision-making.
• Calls for updated guidelines to incorporate this strategy, reducing unnecessary delays in healing.

Read full article

Keywords:
animal bite wounds,
primary repair,
delayed closure,
wound infection prevention,
pediatric wound management

Preventing Pressure Injuries in Pediatric EEG Monitoring: The Role of Polyurethane Foam

Summary: This retrospective study evaluates a simple intervention using polyurethane foam to prevent medical device-related pressure injuries (PIs) in children undergoing continuous electroencephalography (CEEG). By placing 5mm-thick foam with silicone dressing on the frontal forehead between electrodes and 4cm-thick foam on the back of the head for immobile patients, the method reduced PI incidence from 6.5% (5/77 patients) in the standard group to 1.5% (1/65 patients) in the intervention group, achieving a 77% prevention rate. This low-cost approach is particularly valuable for infants with fragile skin, minimizing scarring risks without compromising EEG quality.

Key Highlights:

• CEEG electrodes and head wrapping commonly cause PIs in 7.8% of pediatric cases, with higher risks in infants due to immature skin.
• Intervention group showed significantly lower PI rates (1.5% vs. 6.5%), supporting foam’s pressure-redistribution efficacy.
• Method is easy to implement, using inexpensive materials, and suitable for various facilities monitoring seizures or cortical function.
• Risk assessment via Glamorgan scale identified high-risk patients, but foam prevented injuries across ages <18 years.
• Potential to reduce cosmetic scarring and complications, emphasizing proactive wound prevention in device-related care.

Read full article

Keywords:
pressure injuries,
polyurethane foam,
pediatric wound care,
EEG monitoring,
medical device related PIs

The Clinical Effectiveness of Integrated Digital Wound Management Systems

Summary: This rapid review assesses the evidence for clinical and cost-effectiveness of integrated digital wound management (IDWM) systems, which use 3D imaging and apps for accurate wound assessment and monitoring. From 17 studies (2012–2023), IDWM shows high reliability for surface area measurements (especially 3–10cm² wounds), reduces assessment time by up to 79%, improves documentation and patient satisfaction, and enables remote monitoring. However, depth measurement is inaccurate, comparative healing outcomes are limited, and cost-effectiveness remains undetermined due to sparse data.

Key Highlights:

Read full article

Keywords:
integrated digital wound management,
IDWM systems,
wound measurement,
chronic wound care,
digital wound assessment

COVID-19’s Impact on Diabetes Outcomes: Key Insights for Wound Care

Summary: This review synthesizes evidence from 138 studies on the indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on clinical outcomes in diabetic patients, highlighting healthcare disruptions that exacerbated morbidity and mortality. Key findings include consistent rises in diabetes-related deaths and major amputations, with mixed results for foot ulcer presentations and hospitalizations. Vulnerable groups—females, younger adults, and racial/ethnic minorities—faced disproportionate risks, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to prevent wound complications like delayed ulcer management leading to amputations in future crises.

Key Highlights:

• Diabetes-related mortality increased across all 13 studies, with sharper rises in younger adults (ages 25-44) and racial/ethnic minorities.
• Major amputations rose in 9 of 12 studies, often linked to pandemic delays in foot care and ulcer monitoring.
• Foot ulcer presentations showed mixed trends: 4 studies reported decreases, 4 increases, and 1 no difference, reflecting uneven access to wound care services.
• Hospital and emergency admissions for diabetes varied, with increases noted in pediatric cases and certain adult subgroups amid lockdowns.
• Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) outcomes were inconsistent, but 3 systematic reviews indicated overall increases, complicating glycemic control and healing.

Read full article

Keywords:
diabetes complications,
diabetic foot ulcers,
major amputations,
COVID-19 wound care,
healthcare disruptions

Incidence and Predictors of Diabetic Foot Ulcers in Ethiopian Diabetes Patients

Summary: This retrospective cohort study at Debre Berhan Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Ethiopia (2005–2021) tracked 321 newly diagnosed adult diabetes patients, finding a cumulative diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) incidence of 11.8% (1.01 per 100 person-years). Key predictors included older age (≥70 years, AHR=15.025), rural residence (AHR=2.731), hypertension (AHR=5.609), obesity (AHR=2.936), neuropathy (AHR=4.583), and abnormal HDL levels (AHR=3.713). Using Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analysis, the study underscores the need for early screening and education to prevent complications like amputations in resource-limited settings.

Key Highlights:

• Cumulative DFU incidence of 11.8%, with higher risks in older patients and those with neuropathy or hypertension.
• Rural residence doubles DFU risk due to limited access to foot care and education.
• Obesity and low HDL levels significantly elevate odds, linking metabolic factors to delayed wound healing.
• Study calls for integrated policies emphasizing screening and self-management to reduce amputation rates.
• Limitations include incomplete data and lack of behavioral factors, highlighting needs for prospective research.

Read full article

Keywords:
diabetic foot ulcers,
DFU predictors,
diabetes complications,
rural wound care,
wound prevention

Enhancing Wound Repair: Artificial Dermal Scaffolds with Recombinant Human Epidermal Growth Factor

Summary: This comparative study investigates the efficacy of artificial dermal (AD) scaffolds compounded with recombinant human epidermal growth factor (Rh-EGF) in promoting wound repair in a rat model. The composite scaffold demonstrates sustained Rh-EGF release, enhances cell proliferation and adhesion in vitro, and accelerates in vivo healing by stimulating epithelial regeneration, collagen production, angiogenesis, and cell proliferation, while showing potential to minimize scar formation through reduced fibrosis markers.

Key Highlights:

• AD/Rh-EGF scaffolds effectively absorb and release Rh-EGF, overcoming limitations like slow vascularization in standard AD materials.
• In vitro assays confirm improved L929 fibroblast proliferation and adhesion with the composite scaffold.
• In vivo, the composite promotes faster wound closure over 21 days compared to AD alone, Rh-EGF alone, or controls.
• Histological analysis reveals enhanced epithelial tissue regeneration, collagen deposition, and angiogenesis, with trends toward lower scar formation.
• Findings support clinical translation for advanced wound dressings in chronic wound management.

Read full article

Keywords:
artificial dermal scaffolds,
Rh-EGF,
wound healing,
angiogenesis,
scar reduction

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for Complicated Diabetic Foot Wounds

Summary: This retrospective case series assesses negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in 30 diabetic patients with complicated foot or lower limb infections over 15 years. Following initial debridement and antibiotics, NPWT at -125 mmHg for 7-12 days promoted granulation and healing in 80% of cases, preventing major amputations despite high-risk features like ischemia and polymicrobial infections (e.g., MRSA, E. coli). Five patients (16.6%) required major amputations, and one died. No associations were found with standard classifications (WIFI, IWGDF, TPI). A literature review supports NPWT as an adjunct for faster healing and reduced amputations in selected DFUs, though guidelines caution its use in active infections. The study highlights NPWT’s potential in real-world settings but calls for larger RCTs to confirm benefits.

Key Highlights:

• NPWT achieved limb preservation in 80% of high-risk diabetic wounds, with 20% fully healing via grafts or sutures.
• Common pathogens like MRSA and E. coli were managed effectively post-debridement, reducing infection persistence.
• Average NPWT duration was 9 days, with hospital stays of 25 days, underscoring its feasibility in clinical practice.
• Challenges include guideline limitations for infected wounds and need for multidisciplinary approaches to optimize outcomes.
• Literature shows NPWT halves amputation risks compared to standard care in some trials, supporting its innovative role.

Read full article

Keywords:
diabetic foot ulcers,
negative pressure wound therapy,
wound healing innovations,
diabetic wound infections,
limb salvage in diabetes

Wound Care Around the World

Summary: This international feature examines wound care practices and challenges across various healthcare systems. Experts discuss access disparities, education, and community-based solutions to improve patient outcomes globally.

Key Highlights:

• Compares international wound care standards and challenges.
• Highlights workforce and education disparities.
• Explores innovations in low-resource settings.
• Encourages collaboration to raise global care quality.

Read full article

Keywords:
global wound care,
education,
health systems,
international practice

Saving Organs, Saving Lives: Transforming Wound Care Through Non-Surgical Treatments

Summary: This blog post showcases the innovative non-surgical approaches at KBK Hospitals in Hyderabad, led by Kakkireni Bharath Kumar, to treat complex wound conditions like cellulitis, gangrene, and diabetic foot ulcers. Aligned with the mission “Save Organ, Save Life,” the hospital prioritizes infection control, tissue preservation, and natural healing to prevent amputations, restore mobility, and enhance patient quality of life through personalized, advanced therapies.

Key Highlights:

• Cellulitis treatment focuses on controlling infections, reducing inflammation, and preventing spread with tailored plans for faster recovery and tissue preservation.
• Gangrene care improves blood circulation, removes dead tissue, and stimulates healing to avoid amputation and restore function without surgery.
• Diabetic foot ulcer programs promote wound closure, minimize infection risks, and support complete recovery using modern technologies and expert monitoring.
• Emphasis on compassionate, holistic care that rebuilds patient confidence and mobility, positioning the hospital as a leader in non-invasive wound management.

Read full article

Keywords:
non surgical wound care,
diabetic foot ulcers,
gangrene treatment,
cellulitis management,
limb preservation

AI-Powered Prediction of Postoperative Wound Infections in Diabetic Patients

Summary: This study develops DiabCompSepsAI, a Random Forest Classifier using NSQIP data to predict postoperative wound infections and sepsis in diabetic patients with high accuracy (94%+). By analyzing factors like surgical duration, wound classification, and comorbidities, the model enables early interventions to mitigate healing complications, reduce hospital stays, and lower costs in this high-risk group.

Key Highlights:

• DiabCompSepsAI achieves 94% accuracy in predicting wound infections and sepsis, outperforming traditional risk assessments.
• Top predictors include prolonged surgery, contaminated wounds, and patient weight, highlighting modifiable factors for better healing.
• A user-friendly Streamlit app supports real-time predictions, integrating into clinical workflows for proactive wound care.
• AUC scores of 0.92–0.95 demonstrate strong discriminative power, aiding in reducing morbidity from diabetic complications.
• Future validation could expand its use to diverse surgical settings, enhancing postoperative management.

Read full article

Keywords:
diabetic wound infection,
postoperative sepsis,
AI wound prediction,
surgical site infections,
diabetic wound healing

America’s Amputation Crisis: The Path Forward to Save Limbs and Lives

Summary: This final installment in a four-part series on America’s preventable amputation crisis emphasizes systemic solutions to combat unnecessary limb loss, especially in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) and diabetes. It critiques healthcare incentives favoring amputation over preservation and proposes a comprehensive approach including early PAD screening via the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test, clinician education, supervised exercise therapy (SET), insurance reforms for limb-salvage procedures, and addressing disparities to enhance wound care outcomes and reduce amputation rates.

Key Highlights:

• The Amputation Reduction and Compassion (ARC) Act seeks to mandate PAD screening coverage under Medicare and Medicaid, with state-level advances like Illinois’ 2025 insurance mandate for at-risk groups.
• Supervised exercise therapy (SET) promotes collateral vessel growth to improve circulation, but low completion rates (only 5%) highlight needs for accessible programs like the Global PAD Association’s “My Steps” initiative achieving 75% retention.
• Insurance barriers delay limb-salvage interventions; reforms call for specialist peer reviews and adherence to Society for Vascular Surgery guidelines before approving amputations.
• Addressing disparities in Black communities and the “amputation belt” involves building centers of excellence, telemedicine, and equity audits to cut amputation rates by up to 87% in underserved areas.
• Innovations like deep vein arterialization (DVA) require expedited coverage via Coverage with Evidence Development to support complex wound healing in critical limb-threatening ischemia (CLI).

Read full article

Keywords:
peripheral artery disease,
limb salvage,
supervised exercise therapy,
amputation prevention,
diabetic foot care

Impact of Wound Malodour: VOCs and Health-Related Quality of Life

Summary: This feasibility study examines how malodour from chronic wounds, driven by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from bacterial colonization and necrosis, affects patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Analyzing 92 wounds from 66 patients, it identifies key VOCs like dimethyl disulphide and diacetyl, correlates them with pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and highlights a trend toward greater HRQoL impairment in malodorous cases. The findings advocate for innovative, VOC-targeted therapies to reduce social stigma and support wound healing.

Key Highlights:

• Malodour stems from bacterial VOCs (e.g., dimethyl disulphide from prokaryotes) and necrosis, with biofilms linked to higher odour perception.
• Patients with moderate-to-severe odour showed higher HRQoL impairment (Wound-QoL-14 score 2.1 vs. 1.8), correlating with social isolation and delayed care.
• Pathogen-specific biomarkers identified, such as dimethyl trisulphide for P. aeruginosa and indole for E. coli, enabling targeted antimicrobial strategies.
• Current dressings like activated charcoal offer partial relief (48% efficacy); future VOC antagonists could enhance biomaterials for odour control and tissue regeneration.
• Epithializing wounds had lower VOCs and odour, underscoring malodour as a stalled healing marker.

Read full article

Keywords:
wound malodour,
volatile organic compounds,
chronic wounds,
health related quality of life,
wound healing innovation

Remote Assessment and Monitoring With Advanced Wound Therapy to Optimise Clinical Outcomes, Access, and Resources

Summary: This study highlights how remote wound monitoring and advanced wound therapy platforms improve healing and patient access. Digital assessment tools enabled real-time adjustments, optimizing care and reducing healing time.

Key Highlights:

• Utilized digital tools for remote wound tracking.
• Enhanced patient access and treatment accuracy.
• Improved healing speed and reduced complications.
• Supports telehealth integration into chronic wound management.

Read full article

Keywords:
telehealth,
wound monitoring,
advanced wound therapy,
digital health

Factors Influencing Dressing Choice in Wound Care: A Discussion

Summary: This discussion outlines how wound type, exudate level, infection risk, and cost considerations guide dressing selection. It stresses evidence-based choice, patient comfort, and regular reassessment to optimize healing outcomes.

Key Highlights:

• Explains how exudate and infection risk drive dressing selection.
• Highlights cost and patient comfort as clinical factors.
• Encourages evidence-based individualized care.
• Recommends ongoing evaluation during wound healing.

Read full article

Keywords:
dressing choice,
wound assessment,
clinical decision,
wound management

Clinical Evidence and Cost-Effectiveness: Advanced Cellular Tissue Products for Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Summary: This article provides a comprehensive review of the clinical evidence and cost-effectiveness of advanced cellular/tissue products (CTPs) for diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), focusing on FDA-approved options like Apligraf and Dermagraft. It demonstrates their superiority over standard care in achieving higher healing rates, shorter closure times, and reduced complications such as infections and amputations, while delivering significant long-term cost savings despite initial expenses. The discussion underscores the urgent need for early intervention in DFU management amid rising diabetes prevalence.

Key Highlights:

• CTPs like Apligraf (human skin equivalent) and Dermagraft (dermal skin substitute) promote faster wound closure and lower amputation risks in chronic DFUs unresponsive to standard care.
• Randomized trials show up to twice the healing rates with CTPs, supported by real-world data and meta-analyses confirming reduced hospitalization and infection risks.
• Economic analyses reveal per-patient savings of $5,253–$6,991 over 18 months, offsetting upfront costs through fewer emergency visits and inpatient stays.
• Challenges include high DFU recurrence (50% within 1 year) and the need for prompt adjunctive therapies to prevent 1 in 6 cases from leading to amputation.

Read full article

Keywords:
diabetic foot ulcers,
cellular tissue products,
Apligraf,
Dermagraft,
cost-effective wound care

Optimizing Wound Bed Preparation: Advances in Debridement Techniques

Summary: This article reviews the latest advancements in debridement techniques aimed at optimizing wound bed preparation for chronic wounds. It discusses methods such as enzymatic, mechanical, and biological debridement, highlighting their efficacy in removing necrotic tissue and promoting healing, while addressing challenges like infection control and patient comfort during treatment.

Key Highlights:

• Enzymatic debridement effectively targets dead tissue with minimal damage to healthy tissue.
• Mechanical debridement offers rapid removal but requires careful application to avoid trauma.
• Biological debridement using larvae shows promise in infection management and biofilm disruption.
• Further research is needed to standardize protocols and enhance patient tolerability.

Read full article

Keywords:
wound bed preparation,
debridement techniques,
chronic wounds,
infection control,
wound healing innovation

Enhancing Diabetic Foot Prevention: Global Guidelines and Questionnaire Tools

Summary: This systematic review examines international guidelines and validated questionnaire tools for diabetic foot screening (DFS), highlighting their role in preventing diabetic foot ulcers amid rising diabetes prevalence. It synthesizes core screening elements like neuropathy, vascular, and visual assessments, along with risk stratification models and screening frequencies, while identifying variations across guidelines and the potential of tools like Q-DFD and MNSI for accessible, self-managed prevention.

Key Highlights:

• Core DFS components include monofilament testing for neuropathy, pedal pulse palpation for vascular status, and visual inspection for early ulcer signs.
• Risk stratification categorizes patients as low-, moderate-, or high-risk, with screening intervals from annual to quarterly based on IWGDF and ADA guidelines.
• Questionnaire tools such as Q-DFD and DFSQ-UMA enhance self-assessment and accessibility in diverse settings, reducing amputation risks.
• Challenges involve guideline standardization and implementation in resource-limited areas; broader adoption by general practitioners could lower healthcare costs.

Read full article

Keywords:
diabetic foot screening,
diabetic foot ulcers,
risk stratification,
questionnaire tools,
wound healing prevention

Open Data for Wound Care Research: A Comprehensive Dataset on Chronic Wounds

Summary: This article presents a newly released open-access dataset focused on chronic wounds, offering detailed clinical and imaging data to support wound care research. It emphasizes the dataset’s potential to enhance understanding of wound progression and improve treatment strategies, while noting the need for standardized analysis methods to maximize its utility.

Key Highlights:

• The dataset includes clinical records and high-resolution images of chronic wounds.
• It aims to accelerate research into chronic wound management and healing processes.
• Access is freely available to researchers, fostering global collaboration.
• Challenges include ensuring data consistency and developing robust analytical tools.

Read full article

Keywords:
open data,
chronic wounds,
wound care research,
clinical dataset,
wound healing innovation

Use of Three-Dimensional Acellular Collagen Matrix in Deep or Tunnelling Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Retrospective Case Series

Summary: This case series assessed the effectiveness of a three-dimensional acellular collagen matrix in promoting angiogenesis and tissue regeneration in deep or tunnelling diabetic foot ulcers. The matrix demonstrated improved closure rates and reduced infection risk.

Key Highlights:

• Enhanced tissue growth and angiogenesis within wound tunnels.
• Improved wound closure timelines versus standard care.
• Reduced infection and improved tissue quality outcomes.
• Demonstrated versatility for complex diabetic ulcers.

Read full article

Keywords:
collagen matrix,
diabetic foot ulcer,
tunnelling wound,
wound regeneration

Advancing Wound Healing: Gelatin-Based Hydrogel Films with Manuka Honey

Summary: This article explores the development of gelatin-based hydrogel films incorporated with Manuka honey as an innovative solution for wound healing. The study highlights the films’ enhanced antibacterial properties, biocompatibility, and ability to maintain a moist wound environment, making them promising for clinical applications. It also discusses challenges in optimizing mechanical strength and honey concentration for practical use.

Key Highlights:

• Gelatin-Manuka honey hydrogels exhibit strong antibacterial activity against common wound pathogens.
• The films provide a moist, flexible environment conducive to tissue repair and regeneration.
• In vitro tests confirm biocompatibility with human skin cells, supporting safe application.
• Further research is needed to improve mechanical durability and scalability for clinical settings.

Read full article

Keywords:
gelatin hydrogel,
Manuka honey,
antibacterial wound dressing,
biocompatible materials,
wound healing innovation

Sustainable Wound Healing Using Riboflavin-Enhanced Nanocomposite Hydrogels

Summary: This study presents a riboflavin-enhanced nanocomposite hydrogel designed to promote sustainable wound healing through multifunctional mechanisms. The hydrogel integrates oxygen delivery, antibacterial effects, and biocompatibility to improve the healing process. Laboratory and animal studies demonstrated that the material enhances wound closure by reducing infection, relieving hypoxia, and promoting cellular activity.

Key Highlights:

• Hydrogel incorporates riboflavin to generate oxygen-reactive species for antimicrobial action and tissue repair.
• Supports oxygen diffusion and reduces hypoxic stress in damaged tissue.
• In vitro and in vivo results show improved cell compatibility and faster healing.
• Combines infection control, oxygenation, and tissue regeneration in one wound care platform.

Read full article

Keywords: nanocomposite hydrogels, riboflavin, wound healing, oxygen delivery, antimicrobial therapy

Incidence of diabetic foot ulcer and its predictors among adult diabetes patients in Northern Ethiopia: a retrospective cohort study

Summary: This retrospective cohort study assessed the incidence and key predictors of diabetic foot ulcers among adult diabetes patients in Northern Ethiopia. Following 321 individuals over several years, the research identified clinical and demographic factors significantly associated with ulcer development, emphasizing the importance of early detection and targeted prevention for high-risk patients.

Key Highlights:

• The incidence rate of diabetic foot ulcers was 1.01 per 100 person-years, with 11.8% of patients developing ulcers during follow-up.
• Older age (≥70 years) increased the risk nearly fifteenfold compared with younger patients.
• Other predictors included rural residence, hypertension, neuropathy, obesity, and abnormal HDL cholesterol levels.
• Findings underscore the need for proactive risk-based management in diabetic populations.

Read full article

Keywords: diabetic foot ulcer, incidence, predictors, retrospective cohort, Ethiopia

Clinical Evidence for and Cost-Effectiveness of Advanced Cellular Tissue Products for the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Summary: This review evaluates the clinical and economic evidence supporting advanced cellular tissue products (CTPs) as adjunctive therapies for diabetic foot ulcers. The article highlights studies demonstrating improved wound healing rates and reduced time to closure with certain CTPs compared to standard care. It also discusses economic models suggesting that CTPs may lower long-term healthcare costs by reducing complications and the need for amputations.

Key Highlights:

• CTPs, including bioengineered skin substitutes, show superior healing outcomes versus standard treatment.
• Economic analyses suggest potential cost savings through reduced infections and amputations.
• Comparative data indicate variations in cost-effectiveness across different product types.
• Further large-scale studies are needed to optimize patient selection and maximize clinical and financial benefits.

Read full article

Keywords: advanced cellular tissue products, diabetic foot ulcer, cost effectiveness, wound healing, health economics

Dehydrated Human Amnion/Chorion Membrane to Treat Venous Leg Ulcers: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

Summary: This cost-effectiveness analysis compared dehydrated human amnion/chorion membrane (dHACM) with standard care for venous leg ulcers. The results showed faster closure rates, fewer recurrences, and lower overall treatment costs, confirming dHACM as a clinically and economically viable option.

Key Highlights:

• Improved healing speed and reduced recurrence with dHACM.
• Lowered total care costs and fewer clinical visits required.
• Validated long-term cost-effectiveness for chronic ulcers.
• Reinforces biologic use in venous leg ulcer management.

Read full article

Keywords:
dHACM,
venous leg ulcer,
biologic therapy,
cost analysis

How living fungi bandages are shaping the future of healing

Summary: This article explores the development of living fungi-based bandages, particularly those made from mycelium hydrogels, as a groundbreaking approach to wound healing. The discussion highlights the unique biological and structural properties of mycelium that make it suitable for wound repair, its potential to promote tissue regeneration, and the current challenges researchers face in bringing this innovation to clinical use.

Key Highlights:

• Mycelium hydrogels mimic soft tissue and provide an ideal moist healing environment.
• Living fungi materials exhibit self-repair, biocompatibility, and adaptive wound response.
• Researchers have demonstrated strong hydration retention and mechanical stability in lab settings.
• Further studies are needed to address immune compatibility and long-term viability in patients.

Read full article

Keywords:
living fungi bandages,
mycelium hydrogel,
tissue regeneration,
biomaterials,
wound healing innovation

Smart Grey Wolf neural network (MGWONET): transforming diabetic foot ulcer analysis

Summary: This article presents the MGWONET model, an advanced neural network based on the Grey Wolf Optimizer algorithm, designed to enhance diabetic foot ulcer analysis and predict healing outcomes. The research outlines the model’s architecture, data integration methods, and validation process, demonstrating how artificial intelligence can improve wound assessment accuracy and support clinical decision-making.

Key Highlights:

• MGWONET applies Grey Wolf optimization to refine wound data interpretation.
• Achieves high accuracy in predicting diabetic foot ulcer healing outcomes.
• Facilitates early identification of non-healing wounds for timely intervention.
• Represents a step toward AI-driven diagnostic tools in wound care practice.

Read full article

Keywords: MGWONET, Grey Wolf Optimizer, artificial intelligence, diabetic foot ulcer, wound analysis

Therapy with Vancomycin-Loaded Polymethylmethacrylate Cement Demonstrates Limited Advantage in the Treatment of Infected Diabetes-Related Foot Ulcers: Only Patients with Osteomyelitis Benefited

Summary: This study evaluates the clinical effectiveness of vancomycin-loaded polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement in treating infected diabetes-related foot ulcers. Results revealed that the therapy offered limited overall advantage, with significant improvement observed only among patients with confirmed osteomyelitis. Findings suggest that PMMA antibiotic delivery may be most beneficial when bone infection is present.

Key Highlights:

• Vancomycin-loaded PMMA cement showed benefit exclusively in patients with osteomyelitis.
• No significant improvement observed in soft-tissue infection cases without bone involvement.
• Results highlight the importance of infection type in guiding antibiotic delivery approaches.
• Authors recommend further studies to refine local antibiotic strategies for diabetic foot infections.

Read full article

Keywords:
vancomycin,
polymethylmethacrylate cement,
diabetic foot ulcer,
osteomyelitis,
antibiotic therapy

Research Roundup, Vol. 4, Issue 1

Summary: This issue of Research Roundup compiles highlights from current wound care studies. Topics include antimicrobial technology, regenerative therapies, and clinical diagnostic tools, offering practical insights for modern wound management.

Key Highlights:

• Reviews emerging data on biofilm disruption and infection control.
• Explores new regenerative and cellular therapy options.
• Features updates in wound diagnostics and imaging.
• Summarizes clinically relevant global research trends.

Read full article

Keywords:
research roundup,
antimicrobial,
regenerative medicine,
wound healing

Enhancing patient outcomes through effective guideline implementation

Summary: This article examines the impact of implementing clinical guidelines for pressure ulcer prevention and management. It analyzes changes in incidence rates, patient quality of life, and associated healthcare costs after adopting guideline-based practices in inpatient settings.

Key Highlights:

• Guideline implementation correlated with decreased pressure ulcer incidence.
• Quality of life metrics improved post-implementation.
• Healthcare costs were reduced by lowering resource use and ulcer complications.
• Supports wider adoption of standardized protocols in wound care practice.

Read full article

Keywords:
guideline implementation,
pressure ulcer,
quality of life,
healthcare costs,
wound prevention

The Role of Conjunctive Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Decreasing Amputations in those with Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Clinical Review

Summary: This clinical review appraises published evidence on the adjunctive use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) and its impact on reducing major amputations and enhancing healing. Incorporating six comparative studies, the review synthesizes outcomes on wound size, infection, amputation rates, and mortality.

Key Highlights:

• HBOT as an adjunct to standard wound care demonstrated superior healing and reduced amputation in chronic DFUs.
• Meta-analyses included show consistent trends favoring HBOT over conventional therapy alone.
• The review process included filters, MeSH terms, and strict inclusion criteria to narrow to six high-quality studies.
• Authors call for larger prospective trials to better quantify risks, benefits, and optimal protocols.

Read full article

Keywords:
hyperbaric oxygen therapy,
diabetic foot ulcer,
amputation risk,
wound healing,
adjunctive therapy

Functionally Enriched Human Polymorphisms Associate to Species in the Chronic Wound Microbiome

Summary: This open-access study conducted a microbiome genome-wide association (mbGWAS) across >500 patients with chronic wounds, linking human genetic variants to relative abundance of specific bacterial species. The results show that host genetics partially shape wound microbial communities, revealing 193 candidate loci across 25 genomic regions associated with 16 bacterial species. These findings suggest a genetic influence on wound colonization and healing trajectories.

Key Highlights:

• Identified 193 candidate variants across 25 genomic regions linked to 16 wound bacterial species.
• Per-species heritability estimates ranged up to 20%.
• Functional annotation showed enriched pathways in extracellular matrix organization, immune signaling, and transport.
• Species associated via genetics co-occurred with known pathogens such as *Staphylococcus aureus*.
• Genetic distance among patients correlated with overall microbiome dissimilarity.

Read full article

Keywords:
chronic wound microbiome,
genetic variants,
mbGWAS,
host-microbiome interactions,
bacterial community structure

Heel Diabetic Foot Osteomyelitis: A Current Challenge in the Clinical Practice

Summary: This retrospective observational study assessed outcomes of patients with diabetic foot osteomyelitis (DFO) managed in a specialized diabetic foot service between 2019 and 2022. Researchers compared patients with heel DFO to those with forefoot or midfoot DFO over a one-year follow-up, examining healing rates, healing time, amputation, and mortality.

Findings: Among 114 patients (mean age 67.9 years, 72.8% male, 91.2% type 2 diabetes), 30 had heel DFO and 84 had forefoot/midfoot DFO. Heel DFO patients exhibited more severe infection indicators, including larger ulcers (>5 cm), higher C-reactive protein levels, and greater prevalence of gangrene and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Healing outcomes were significantly poorer for heel DFO cases, with longer healing times and higher rates of major amputation.

• Healing rate: 66.7% (heel) vs 97% (forefoot/midfoot)
• Healing time: 14 ± 6 weeks (heel) vs 6.8 ± 5 weeks (forefoot/midfoot)
• Major amputation: 10% (heel) vs 0% (forefoot/midfoot)
• Mortality: 6.6% (heel) vs 4.8% (forefoot/midfoot)

Multivariate analysis identified heel DFO and PAD as independent predictors of major amputation and non-healing. The study concludes that heel DFO represents a distinct clinical challenge associated with worse prognosis and slower recovery compared to other DFO sites.

Read full article

Keywords:
diabetic foot osteomyelitis,
heel ulcer,
diabetic foot ulcer,
amputation risk,
peripheral arterial disease

Use of Hypothermically Stored Amniotic Membrane on Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Multicentre Retrospective Case Series

Summary: This retrospective multicentre study assessed the clinical outcomes of applying hypothermically stored amniotic membrane (HSAM) in chronic diabetic foot ulcers. Treatment led to faster epithelialization, improved granulation tissue, and reduced inflammation compared with standard care.

Key Highlights:

• Evaluated HSAM’s role in difficult-to-heal diabetic ulcers.
• Observed accelerated closure and reduced infection risk.
• Highlighted regenerative and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Supports HSAM as an adjunct in chronic wound management.

Read full article

Keywords:
amniotic membrane,
diabetic foot ulcer,
wound healing,
HSAM

Edge Trenching: A Case Study of a Novel Debridement Technique

Summary: Debridement is essential in wound bed preparation, but wounds with vertical edges often stall because tissue in the wound base does not merge with wound margins. This case study introduces “edge trenching,” where a small trench is excavated between the wound base and wall to facilitate merger and create a favorable angle for epithelial migration. A 73-year-old male with a chronic Charcot ulcer underwent this technique, achieving closure over 13 months and remaining closed at six years.

Key Highlights:

• Vertical walls or rolled edges can prevent wound base-to-edge merging, stalling closure.
• Edge trenching excavates a trench at the base-edge interface to connect the two surfaces.
• The technique uses small curettes and repeat debridement visits to create a favorable transitional angle.
• Case outcome: successful healing in a challenging Charcot ulcer case, with long-term stability.

Read full article

Keywords:
edge trenching,
debridement,
chronic ulcer,
wound bed preparation,
wound edges

Efficacy and safety of polyhexanide compared with other wound dressings in patients with various wound types: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Summary: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates polyhexanide-containing dressings against alternative options across multiple wound types, synthesizing data on healing, infection control, and adverse events to guide formulary and bedside choices.

Key Highlights:

• Compares clinical endpoints: time-to-closure, infection indicators, pain, odor, and quality of life.
• Assesses safety profile and tolerance across etiologies (e.g., VLUs, DFUs, pressure injuries).
• Discusses antimicrobial stewardship considerations for antiseptic dressings.
• Notes heterogeneity in study designs and recommends standardized outcome reporting.

Read the article in WPR

Keywords:
polyhexanide,
systematic review,
meta-analysis,
antiseptic dressings

Research terminology in chronic wound research: a scoping review protocol

Summary: This protocol outlines a scoping review to catalog and standardize terminology used in chronic wound research—aiming to improve comparability, reporting quality, and evidence synthesis across studies and registries.

Key Highlights:

• Plans to map definitions for wound etiology, severity, “standard of care,” and outcome measures.
• Identifies inconsistencies that hinder meta-analysis and guideline development.
• Will propose a harmonized lexicon aligned with consensus frameworks and registries.
• Intended to support regulators, payers, and investigators with clearer standards.

Read the protocol in WPR

Keywords:
scoping review,
terminology,
chronic wounds,
standardization

Wound care practices and training needs among community pharmacists in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study

Summary: This cross-sectional study surveys community pharmacists in Saudi Arabia to map current wound care practices, confidence, and perceived training gaps—informing education and referral pathways at the pharmacy level.

Key Highlights:

• Assesses product counseling, dressing selection, triage, and referral behaviors.
• Identifies knowledge gaps in infection signs, compression/offloading, and chronic wound flags.
• Recommends targeted education modules and standardized guidance tools for pharmacists.
• Supports pharmacist integration into early identification and community-based prevention.

Read the article in WPR

Keywords:
community pharmacists,
training needs,
Saudi Arabia,
primary care wound management

Antimicrobial stewardship in wound care: measurement, implementation, and outcomes

Summary: This article examines antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) specifically within wound care, outlining frameworks to measure antibiotic use, implement stewardship interventions, and assess clinical outcomes while minimizing resistance and toxicity.

Key Highlights:

• Defines AMS metrics relevant to wounds: antibiotic days, spectrum intensity, guideline adherence, culture-guided therapy.
• Describes implementation strategies: care pathways, education, formulary controls, and microbiology collaboration.
• Recommends outcome tracking: healing rates, infection recurrence, adverse drug events, and resistance trends.
• Emphasizes biofilm-aware practice, debridement, and topical/antiseptic stewardship alongside systemic therapy.

Read the article in WPR

Keywords:
antimicrobial stewardship,
wound infection,
antibiotic resistance,
biofilm

Submit Your Abstract for WOCNext

Summary: WOCN is accepting abstracts for WOCNext. Clinicians, researchers, and industry partners are invited to submit research, quality improvement, and education abstracts across wound, ostomy, continence, and foot & nail care practice areas.

Key Highlights:

• Abstract categories typically include research, case series, QI, education, and practice innovations.
• Ideal for sharing outcomes, protocols, and implementation strategies that improve patient care.
• Accepted abstracts may be presented as posters or oral sessions at WOCNext.
• Check submission portal for deadlines, formatting, and author guidelines.

Submit via WOCN

Keywords:
WOCN,
WOCNext,
abstract submission,
wound ostomy continence

Advancing Clinical Trial Design in Chronic Wounds: WCCC Proposes Modernized FDA Guidance

Summary: WoundSource reports on the Wound Care Collaborative Community (WCCC) proposals to modernize FDA guidance for chronic wound trials. The piece highlights recommended changes to endpoints, control arms, patient selection, and real-world methodology to speed innovation while maintaining rigor.

Key Highlights:

• Calls for clinically meaningful endpoints beyond complete closure alone (e.g., durable closure, infection control, pain, function).
• Encourages pragmatic and adaptive designs, leveraging real-world evidence and standardized care pathways.
• Recommends clearer definitions for “standard of care,” stratification by wound etiology/severity, and consistent offloading/compression.
• Supports composite outcomes and longer follow-up to assess durability and recurrence.

Read the full post on WoundSource

Keywords:
WCCC,
FDA guidance,
clinical trial design,
chronic wounds

Comparative study in adults with pressure ulcer stage I (ISRCTN13554350)

Summary: Trial registration detailing a completed comparative study in adults with stage I pressure ulcers. The record provides a plain-language summary, eligibility, and outcomes framework.

Key Highlights:

• Status: Registered Sept 24, 2025; completed; not recruiting.
• Population: Adults with stage I pressure ulcers.
• Utility: Protocol and outcomes help benchmark preventive and early-intervention strategies.

View the trial on ISRCTN

Keywords:
pressure ulcer,
stage I,
clinical trial registration

Efficacy of a full-thickness decellularised placental membrane allograft compared to standard of care in diabetic foot ulcers: a prospective, randomised controlled trial

Summary: Multicentre RCT comparing FT-DPM adjunct to standard care versus standard care alone in persistent DFUs. FT-DPM showed higher 12-week closure and greater percentage area reduction, with fewer serious adverse events.

Key Highlights:

• Design: Eight-site RCT; all wounds offloaded and debrided.
• Outcomes: 12-week closure 48% vs 27% (per protocol); area reduction ~79% vs 56%.
• Safety: Fewer serious AEs in FT-DPM group; none treatment-related.

Read the full article in JWC

Keywords:
Reyzelman,
Vayser,
Hanft,
Cazzell,
placental membrane,
DFU,
randomised controlled trial

Sequence LifeScience, Inc. Announces First Patient Enrolled in Groundbreaking Clinical Trial for Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Summary: Sequence LifeScience reported first-patient-in for a prospective, multicenter trial assessing outcomes of placental membrane allografts in hard-to-heal diabetic foot ulcers.

Key Highlights:

• Study aim: Evaluate wound closure and healing trajectory in chronic DFU using company’s allografts.
• Design: Prospective, multicenter clinical investigation focused on hard-to-heal ulcers.
• Rationale: Address persistent limb-loss risk and need for effective adjunctive biologics.

Read the press release on PR Newswire

Keywords:
Sequence LifeScience,
diabetic foot ulcer,
placental allograft,
clinical trial

Healogics Appoints Arti Masturzo, MD, as President of Healogics Specialty Physicians

Summary: Healogics announced Arti Masturzo, MD, as President of its physician group, HSP. The role focuses on clinical excellence, physician engagement, and integrating technology to advance specialty wound care services.

Key Highlights:

• Leadership focus: Strengthening quality, outcomes, and operational performance across HSP.
• Innovation agenda: Accelerating technology-enabled care models and partnerships.
• Organizational impact: Aligning growth initiatives with evolving patient and provider needs.

Read the press release at Healogics

Keywords:
Healogics,
Arti Masturzo,
wound care leadership

Artificial Intelligence Is Changing Your World — Is It Dystopian?

Summary: Editorial overview of AI’s rapidly expanding role in skin and wound care—from image analysis and infection detection to workflow automation—alongside cautions about bias, data integrity, and responsible adoption.

Key Highlights:

• Clinical promise: Decision support, triage, and remote monitoring may improve accuracy and access.
• Risks & governance: Data quality, transparency, and validation remain essential to avoid harm.
• Action items: Start small, audit outcomes, and align use with standards and patient consent.

Read the editorial in ASWC

Keywords:
artificial intelligence,
wound care technology,
clinical decision support

Closure Rate of Chronic Wound With Sinus Tract Based on Morphological and Pathological Features of the Endoscopic Evaluated Sinus Tract

Summary: Original research examining how endoscopic morphology and pathology of sinus tracts relate to closure outcomes in chronic wounds. The cohort showed a high overall closure rate, with morphologically complex tracts less common but clinically meaningful.

Key Highlights:

• Cohort & design: Prospective endoscopic evaluation of sinus tracts in chronic wounds with standardized follow-up.
• Key finding: Morphologically complex tracts were relatively infrequent but impacted healing dynamics; overall closure rate reported at ~85%.
• Clinical utility: Endoscopic tract characterization can guide targeted debridement, irrigation, and closure strategies.

Read the full study in Wounds

Keywords:
sinus tract,
endoscopic evaluation,
chronic wounds,
closure rate

Use of, and Medicare Expenditure on, Sutureless Amniotic Membrane Grafts Soared — and Maybe Not for a Good Reason

Summary: A new analysis reveals a steep rise in the use and Medicare costs of sutureless amniotic membrane grafts (AMGs) between 2011 and 2020. These grafts, often used in ophthalmology for conditions like dry eye, were reimbursed based on wholesale acquisition cost (WAC), not the provider’s true purchase price. This created significant profit margins that may have fueled overutilization. Experts call for reimbursement reform to prevent misuse while ensuring patient access when clinically appropriate.

Key Highlights:

• Sharp increase in use: Procedures billed for sutureless AMGs jumped from 319 in 2011 to more than 8,000 in 2020.
• Cost escalation: Medicare payments grew from $3.6 million in 2011 to $95.6 million in 2020.
• Profit-driven incentives: Providers could profit up to $600 per graft due to the gap between WAC and actual acquisition cost.
• Concerns of misuse: Utilization patterns suggest many applications may not have been clinically justified, echoing past controversies around skin substitute billing.
• Policy suggestions: Researchers recommend aligning reimbursement with real costs and enforcing oversight to balance access with responsible use.

Read the full article on Managed Healthcare Executive

Keywords:
sutureless amniotic membrane grafts,
Medicare expenditure,
reimbursement incentives,
overutilization,
ophthalmology grafts,
Managed Healthcare Executive

Pro-Angiogenic and Wound-Healing Potential of Bioactive Polysaccharides Extracted from Moroccan Algae Osmundea pinnatifida

Summary: Researchers investigated a bioactive polysaccharide (PSOP) extracted from the red alga Osmundea pinnatifida. Laboratory assays, chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) models, and rat wound models confirmed its antioxidant, pro-angiogenic, and wound healing properties. PSOP enhanced vascular growth, collagen formation, and accelerated closure, making it a promising candidate for advanced wound care therapies.

Key Highlights:

• Extraction & analysis: Structural characterization revealed PSOP’s high carbohydrate content and porous morphology, favorable for biomedical use.
• Antioxidant activity: Demonstrated strong radical scavenging and reducing power in vitro, supporting its role in reducing oxidative stress in wounds.
• Angiogenesis stimulation: Increased vascular branching by up to 250% in CAM assays.
• In vivo healing: Rats treated with PSOP hydrogel showed faster wound contraction, with complete closure by day 11.
• Mechanism: Computational docking suggested PSOP may interact with VEGF and COX-2, influencing angiogenesis and tissue repair pathways.
• Clinical potential: Findings indicate PSOP could be developed into novel, natural biomaterials for chronic or ischemic wound treatment.

Read the full article in Life (MDPI)

Keywords:
Zakaria Boujhoud,
Malek Eleroui,
Osmundea pinnatifida,
bioactive polysaccharides,
angiogenesis,
wound healing,
antioxidant activity

The smart way to make smart bandages

Summary: Purdue University engineers have introduced a scalable method to produce smart bandages using roll-to-roll printing technology. These bandages integrate colorimetric sensors that monitor wound conditions such as pH, temperature, and moisture, offering continuous, noninvasive infection detection. In preclinical testing, the bandages distinguished between healthy and infected wounds, positioning them as a promising tool for affordable and practical clinical use.

Key Highlights:

• Scalable manufacturing: Roll-to-roll printing directly applies sensor inks onto fabric, enabling low-cost, mass production.
• Color-based sensing: Sensors visibly shift color in response to infection-related changes in temperature, pH, and humidity.
• Preclinical validation: In a 14-day mouse wound model, the smart bandages consistently tracked infection changes.
• Smartphone integration: Images of the bandages can be analyzed by a machine learning model to provide actionable insights for clinicians and patients.
• Future directions: Plans include expanding the sensor panel to monitor glucose and other biomarkers, with human trials anticipated.

Read full article at Purdue ME News

Keywords:
smart bandages,
roll-to-roll printing,
colorimetric sensors,
wound monitoring,
infection detection,
Purdue University

Pay Attention Even if WISeR Does Not Currently Apply to You!

Summary: This expert-opinion piece by Kathleen D. Schaum discusses the relevance and implications of the WISeR (Wound Intervention Standardized Reporting) framework—even for practitioners who haven’t adopted it yet. Schaum argues that awareness of WISeR’s principles can improve reporting, outcomes, and standardization across wound care settings.

Key Highlights:

• WISeR offers a structured approach to documenting wound interventions and tracking outcomes.
• Even clinicians not currently using WISeR can benefit by aligning their documentation with its principles.
• The article encourages readers to review WISeR’s components and consider phased adoption.

Note: This article is considered **expert opinion** and was not peer reviewed.
Author: Kathleen D. Schaum, MS (President, Kathleen D. Schaum & Associates)
Journal Info: Advances in Skin & Wound Care, Vol 38, Issue 9, October 2025 | DOI:10.1097/ASW.0000000000000354

Read the full article at ASWC / LWW

Keywords:
Kathleen D. Schaum,
WISeR,
standardized reporting,
wound care documentation

Efficacy of a full-thickness decellularised placental membrane allograft compared to standard of care in diabetic foot ulcers: a prospective, randomised controlled trial

Summary: This multicentre, prospective, randomised controlled trial assessed the safety and efficacy of adjunctive full-thickness decellularised placental membrane (FT-DPM) compared to standard of care (SoC) for persistent and recalcitrant diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). A total of 57 patients received FT-DPM and 51 received SoC, with all wounds debrided and offloaded. FT-DPM significantly improved wound closure and percentage area reduction at 12 weeks compared to SoC. The treatment was also associated with fewer serious adverse events, underscoring its potential as an innovative therapy for chronic DFUs.

Key Highlights:

• Design: Multicentre, prospective, randomised controlled trial conducted across eight U.S. outpatient wound clinics (2022–2024).
• Treatment protocol: FT-DPM applied to wound bed post-debridement and left in place for 5–9 days; SoC included moist wound therapy with alginates, foams, or hydrogels.
• Healing outcomes: FT-DPM group achieved 48% wound closure at 12 weeks versus 27% in SoC (p=0.0499, per-protocol analysis).
• Area reduction: Mean percentage area reduction was 79% in FT-DPM vs. 56% in SoC (p<0.05).
• Adverse events: Serious adverse events were significantly higher in SoC (29%) compared to FT-DPM (2%), none of which were treatment-related.
• Clinical relevance: Findings demonstrate FT-DPM’s structural and biological advantages over amnion-only grafts, offering improved scaffold integrity, biological factor retention, angiogenesis promotion, and host tissue integration.
• Regulatory & ethics: Approved by the WIRB-Copernicus IRB (Protocol #20215453) and registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05087758).

Read the full article in Journal of Wound Care (JWC)

Keywords:
Alexander M Reyzelman,
Dean Vayser,
Jason R Hanft,
Shawn Cazzell,
diabetic foot ulcer,
placental membrane,
DFU treatment,
clinical trial,
regenerative medicine,
decellularised allograft

Multifaceted Antibiotic Resistance in Diabetic Foot Infections: A Systematic Review

Summary: This systematic review and limited meta-analysis (2014–2024) analyzed 28 studies to evaluate bacterial prevalence and antibiotic resistance patterns in diabetic foot infections (DFIs). The findings highlight high rates of multidrug resistance (MDR), associations with comorbidities, and the importance of culture-guided therapy in preventing treatment failure.

Key Highlights:

• Common pathogens: Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequent isolate, followed by Pseudomonas, Enterococcus, Enterobacter, and Escherichia coli.
• Resistance trends: High rates of both mono- and multidrug resistance were observed, with Acinetobacter showing the greatest MDR burden.
• Comorbidity correlations: Dyslipidemia, hypertension, nephropathy, peripheral vascular disease, prior amputation, and smoking were strongly linked with resistance profiles.
• Study limitations: Most studies originated from China and Malaysia, with male patients overrepresented, which may limit generalizability.
• Clinical impact: Empiric antibiotic use without culture testing risks treatment failure in MDR infections. Regular antibiogram surveillance and individualized therapy are essential for effective management.

Read the full article in Microorganisms (MDPI)

Keywords:
Weiqi Li,
Oren Sadeh,
Jina Chakraborty,
Emily Yang,
Paramita Basu,
Priyank Kumar,
diabetic foot infection,
antibiotic resistance,
multidrug resistance,
antimicrobial stewardship

Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting moderate-to-severe diabetic foot ulcers in type 2 diabetes

Summary: This study developed and validated a nomogram model to predict the risk of moderate to severe diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) in patients with type 2 diabetes. Using retrospective data from 499 hospitalized patients, the authors identified 9 independent predictors and demonstrated that their model had excellent discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility.

Key Highlights:

• Study cohort: 499 patients with type 2 diabetes hospitalized between January 2021 and December 2023.
• Predictors included: Diabetic kidney disease (DKD), diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), diabetic retinopathy (DR), peripheral angiopathy (PAD), D-dimer, K-time, total cholesterol (TC), LDL-C, and HDL-C.
• Model performance: The nomogram achieved an AUC of 0.977 (95% CI 0.965–0.989) in the training set and 0.977 (95% CI 0.958–0.996) in the validation set.
• Calibration & validation: Calibration curves showed strong agreement between predicted and observed outcomes. Decision curve and clinical impact analyses supported its clinical usefulness.
• Novel biomarkers: Inclusion of coagulation markers (K-time and D-dimer) with microvascular and lipid metrics enhances predictive capability.
• Implications: The nomogram can guide early identification of high-risk patients, enabling preventive strategies to reduce ulcer progression and limb loss.

Read the full article in Frontiers in Endocrinology

Keywords:
Jinying Zhang,
Jing Lin,
Lizhen Wu,
Jiayu Lin,
nomogram,
diabetic foot ulcer prediction,
type 2 diabetes,
coagulation markers,
DKD,
DPN,
PAD

Kiwis are losing limbs in record numbers – and most never see it coming

Summary: Diabetes is driving a surge in amputations across New Zealand, with nearly 1200 toes, feet, and legs lost each year. Despite most being preventable, health systems are struggling to stem the rise. Community-based podiatry programs are helping, but data show amputations have grown by 55% in less than a decade, underscoring the urgent need for prevention and early intervention.

Key Highlights

• Growing toll: Official figures show 1181 amputations in 2023/24, including over 800 toes and more than 300 legs below or around the knee.
• Younger patients: Thirteen diabetics under age 30 underwent amputations, highlighting the impact of obesity and poor diet on younger populations.
• Regional disparities: Northland, Counties Manukau, Auckland, Waitemata, Wellington, and Waikato have seen cases nearly double in eight years, while regions like Canterbury remain stable.
• Community podiatry: Podiatrist Lawrence Kingi works at marae-based clinics, treating foot injuries early and educating patients to prevent progression to sepsis and amputation.
• Human impact: More than half of patients with major lower-leg amputations die within four years, making early podiatric intervention critical.
• Everyday injuries: Even minor wounds like corns, ingrown toenails, or bumps can spiral into amputations when combined with neuropathy and poor circulation.

Conclusion

New Zealand’s rising diabetes-related amputations reveal a preventable public health crisis. Expanding podiatric care, education, and community outreach is essential to keep patients mobile, independent, and alive. Without intervention, the amputation burden will continue to climb, with devastating human and economic consequences.

Read the full article at Stuff

Keywords:
New Zealand,
diabetes,
amputations,
foot ulcers,
podiatry,
Lawrence Kingi

Why Podiatry Should Be a First-Line Strategy in Diabetes Management

Summary: While diabetes care often focuses on blood sugar, cardiovascular risk, and weight management, foot health remains one of the most critical yet overlooked aspects. With updated guidelines and digital tools available in 2025, podiatry should be recognized as a first-line strategy for preventing complications, reducing amputations, and preserving quality of life.

Key Highlights

• The overlooked connection: Up to 25% of people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer in their lifetime, many of which progress to amputation if untreated.
• Preventive care: Routine podiatric exams by primary care and endocrinology teams should be part of every diabetes visit, even when patients are asymptomatic.
• Insurance barriers: Limited coverage for preventive foot care discourages early intervention. Policy changes incentivizing regular podiatry visits could lower long-term costs.
• Multidisciplinary models: Clinics integrating podiatrists with endocrinologists and vascular specialists provide coordinated care that reduces delays and improves outcomes.
• Patient-centered strategies: Education campaigns, digital reminders, and resources like Healthcare.pro empower patients to prioritize foot health.
• Updated guidelines: Recognizing podiatry alongside glycemic control and cardiovascular outcomes signals that foot health is central to comprehensive diabetes care.

Conclusion

Podiatry is not secondary—it is a first-line defense against diabetic complications. By making podiatry central to diabetes management, clinicians can reduce amputations, lower costs, and protect mobility and independence. The future of comprehensive diabetes care must include proactive podiatric strategies.

FAQs

Why is podiatry important in diabetes management?
Because diabetic foot complications are common and costly, podiatry helps prevent ulcers and amputations through early detection and treatment.

What new technologies are supporting diabetic foot care?
Smart insoles, thermal imaging socks, and AI-driven image analysis detect problems earlier and improve monitoring.

Do drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro help with foot health?
Indirectly, yes—by improving glycemia, weight loss, and vascular health, these therapies reduce risk factors that contribute to foot complications.

How often should patients with diabetes see a podiatrist?
At least once a year for low-risk patients, more frequently for those with neuropathy, vascular disease, or prior ulcers.

Can preventive podiatric care reduce healthcare costs?
Yes. Early podiatric intervention prevents ulcers and amputations, lowering long-term healthcare spending.

Read the full article at Diabetes in Control

Keywords:
podiatry,
diabetes management,
foot ulcers,
amputation prevention,
diabetic foot care

Phytotherapy for Chronic Wound Management in the Era of Antibiotic Resistance

Summary: This literature review explores the potential of plant-derived compounds (phytocompounds) in managing chronic wounds, particularly in the context of rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and biofilm-associated infections. Chronic wounds often stall in the inflammatory phase, complicated by polymicrobial biofilms that protect pathogens and resist antibiotics. Phytotherapy offers biocompatible, low-toxicity, and cost-effective alternatives with antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and wound-healing properties. Compounds such as flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, tannic acid, coumarin, resveratrol, berberine, and curcumin show promise in reducing oxidative stress, promoting clotting, stimulating collagen synthesis, and combating infections. Combining natural agents with conventional therapies could enhance outcomes and reduce reliance on resistant antibiotics.

Key Highlights:

• Background: Chronic wounds are characterized by impaired healing, prolonged inflammation, and frequent biofilm-driven infections. AMR limits the effectiveness of antibiotics, underscoring the need for novel strategies.
• Mechanisms: Phytocompounds disrupt quorum sensing, suppress virulence factors, reduce oxidative stress, and stimulate angiogenesis and fibroblast activity. They enhance all four healing phases: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling.
• Examples:
  • Coumarin: reduces oxidative stress, stabilizes clotting, improves perfusion.
  • Tannic acid: promotes coagulation, wound contraction, and capillary growth.
  • Curcumin: modulates growth factors, reduces oxidative stress, enhances collagen synthesis.
  • Resveratrol: anti-inflammatory, reduces cytokine activity, supports angiogenesis.
  • Berberine: antimicrobial and vascular-stabilizing effects.
• Clinical potential: Phytocompounds offer synergy with conventional care, biocompatibility, and lower costs. Their antioxidant and antimicrobial effects make them attractive for integration into wound care regimens.
• Limitations: Evidence remains largely preclinical or early clinical. More controlled trials are required to standardize dosing, delivery, and long-term outcomes.

Read the full article on Wounds (HMP Global Learning Network)

Keywords:
phytotherapy,
chronic wounds,
antimicrobial resistance,
biofilms,
curcumin,
resveratrol,
berberine,
tannic acid,
coumarin

The Use of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Assessment of Viability and Monitoring of Healthy Trajectories in Skin Tears

Summary: A single-center prospective cohort study at Madigan Army Medical Center (2023–2024) evaluated near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) as a tool for assessing skin flap viability in skin tears. The study found that NIRS-guided preservation of skin flaps significantly reduced wound size and demonstrated healing times shorter than historical averages, suggesting NIRS may improve outcomes and lower costs in wound care.

Key Highlights:

• Background: Traditional assessment of skin flaps relies on visual inspection, often leading to unnecessary excision and larger wounds. NIRS provides an objective, noninvasive measure of tissue perfusion and oxygenation.
• Methods: 14 skin flaps in 11 patients were evaluated using NIRS. Tissue with StO₂ ≥ 50% was preserved, while nonviable tissue was debrided.
• Results: Median wound area with preserved flaps was 1.6 cm² versus 9.1 cm² without preservation (P = .0001). Median healing time was 22 days, compared with 28–42 days reported in literature.
• Clinical significance: Preserved skin flaps provided smaller wounds, faster closure, and potential improvements in tissue tensile strength. NIRS enabled real-time decision-making in flap conservation.
• Economic implications: Reduced healing times could lower follow-up costs by $200–$400 per patient, with potential national savings of $5 million annually across U.S. wound care clinics.
• Future considerations: Larger studies are needed to refine StO₂ thresholds, validate long-term benefits, and assess cost-effectiveness of NIRS adoption in clinical workflows.

Read the full article on Wounds (HMP Global Learning Network)

Keywords:
near-infrared spectroscopy,
skin flap viability,
skin tears,
Madigan Army Medical Center

Predicting Success in Spinal Cord Stimulation for the Diabetic Foot: The Role of Infrared Thermography

Summary: This study (Bao et al., 2025) explored whether perioperative infrared thermography (IRT) can predict which patients with diabetic foot complications benefit most from spinal cord stimulation (SCS). Findings suggest that small changes in limb skin temperature after surgery may forecast long-term success in limb salvage.

Key Highlights:

• Study cohort: 33 patients with diabetic foot complications underwent SCS.
• Temperature changes: Patients whose skin temperature rose by ≥ –0.12 °C within one week of surgery achieved higher limb salvage rates.
• Limb salvage outcomes: Overall, 78.8% of limbs treated with SCS avoided amputation.
• Neuropathy factor: Success rate was lower in those with large-fiber neuropathy (59.1%) compared to patients without neuropathy (88.6%).
• Ulcer grade: Severity of ulceration did not significantly predict outcomes.
• Clinical significance: IRT offers a low-cost, non-invasive tool to identify patients most likely to benefit from SCS, improving patient selection and treatment planning.

Read the full article on Diabetic Foot Online

Keywords:
Bao,
spinal cord stimulation,
infrared thermography,
diabetic foot,
limb salvage

Wound Care Business Navigator – Rapid Fire Series: Top 3 Documentation Tips for Autologous Blood

Summary: This WoundSource webinar (Business Navigator Rapid Fire edition) reviews best practices in documenting autologous blood therapies in wound care. It aims to help clinicians reduce denials by improving clarity, specificity, and compliance in clinical records.

Key Highlights:

• Document indications, volume, preparation method, and delivery site to justify usage of autologous blood.
• Correlate findings (e.g. granulation, healing stall) to changes in documentation to support necessity.
• Use consistent, medically acceptable terminology and cite guidelines or evidence backing use.

Watch the webinar on WoundSource

Keywords:
autologous blood products,
documentation tips,
wound care billing

A Follow Up on the “Tale of Two Wounds” and the Madness of Skin Sub Pricing

Summary: Dr. Caroline Fife revisits a prior case comparison showing drastic differences in wound care costs between two similar cases. She highlights the absurd price variation of skin substitutes (some varying over 1000%), the financial burden on patients, and systemic incentives driving overuse.

Key Highlights:

• In one case, Medicare (and thus the patient) paid nearly **half a million dollars** for a wound‐care case vs <1% of that for another similar wound.
• The clinician profit split (50:50 on skin substitute markup) for high cost cases is exposed as part of the pricing problem.
• Dr. Fife questions how “minimally manipulated” amniotic products can command wildly different per-cm² prices.
• She urges regulatory and reimbursement reform from CMS to cap costs and reduce perverse incentives.

Read the full post on CarolineFifeMD.com

Keywords:
Caroline Fife,
skin substitute pricing,
wound care economics,
CTP overuse

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.

Read the full article on HMP Global Learning Network

Keywords:
citric acid,
chronic wounds,
wound bed preparation,
granulation tissue,
Staphylococcus aureus,
Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Expediting Acute Wound Healing by Integrating Multiple Therapeutic Strategies: A Case Series

Summary: This case series describes how combining multiple advanced wound therapies early in acute wounds can accelerate healing. The authors analyzed 124 patients treated with a multimodal regimen and found a median healing time of 19 days, with lower utilization of healthcare resources compared to traditional approaches.

Key Highlights:

• Early specialist consultation (median 2 days) was part of the protocol and may contribute to improved outcomes.
• Therapeutic combinations included hypochlorous acid cleansing, negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) with instillation, collagen/oxidized regenerated cellulose, silver, manuka honey, and foam dressings.
• Median healing time across 124 patients was 19 days; notable delays were linked to smoking, immunocompromise, and lack of access to wound supplies.
• Multimodal treatment reduced the number of dressing changes, follow-up visits, and home care needs compared to historical standards.
• Compliance with the T.I.M.E. + S (tissue, inflammation/infection, moisture balance, edge/periwound, size/social) assessment framework guided interventions dynamically throughout care.

Read the full case series on HMP Global Learning Network

Keywords:
Kathy E. Gallagher,
Emily C. Alberto,
John Getchell,
Jessie Powell,
Luis Cardenas,
acute wounds,
multimodal therapy,
NPWT instillation,
wound healing acceleration

Multidisciplinary Management of Early Esophageal Fistulae After Anterior Cervical Surgery

Summary: This case study highlights a coordinated approach to treating esophageal fistulae following anterior cervical spine surgery. By integrating expertise from surgery, otolaryngology, and wound care, clinicians achieved improved outcomes through early diagnosis and collaborative intervention.

Key Highlights:

• Early recognition: Prompt imaging and symptom evaluation identified fistula formation.
• Team strategy: Surgeons, otolaryngologists, and wound specialists worked together for infection control and repair.
• Treatment methods: Management included surgical diversion, antibiotics, nutritional support, and wound care integration.
• Patient outcomes: The multidisciplinary method reduced complications and supported tissue recovery.

Read the full case study on HMP Global Learning Network

Keywords:
anterior cervical surgery,
esophageal fistula management,
multidisciplinary wound care,
surgical complications wound care

Multifunctional Hydrogel Patch for Wound Healing and Infection Control

Summary: A multifunctional hydrogel patch was developed that delivers antibacterial and pro-healing agents in response to wound conditions. The patch demonstrated effective bacterial inhibition, inflammation reduction, and faster wound closure in animal models, outperforming standard dressings.

Key Highlights:

• Stimuli-responsive release: The patch releases agents triggered by pH and bacterial metabolites in the wound environment.
• Dual benefits: Provides antimicrobial action while promoting angiogenesis and tissue regeneration.
• Preclinical results: Animal models showed quicker closure rates, reduced bacterial load, and improved histology.
• Biocompatibility: The hydrogel demonstrated safety and non-cytotoxicity under physiological conditions.

Read the full article in Scientific Reports (Nature)

Keywords:
multifunctional hydrogel,
stimuli responsive dressing,
antimicrobial hydrogel,
wound healing biomaterials

Tissue-Engineered (Bioactive) Dressings in Cutaneous Wound Healing: Mechanisms, Materials, and Applications

Summary: This review examines how tissue-engineered dressings combine biomaterials with bioactive agents to accelerate skin healing. It explores the roles of hydrogels, scaffolds, and smart polymers in delivering growth factors, stem cells, nanomaterials, or genetic therapies to support tissue repair.

Key Highlights:

• Materials: Hydrogels, electrospun scaffolds, and composite matrices provide structural and therapeutic benefits.
• Bioactive integration: Growth factors, exosomes, antimicrobial peptides, and stem cells can be embedded to modulate healing phases.
• Mechanisms: Dressings target inflammation resolution, angiogenesis promotion, ECM deposition, and cell migration.
• Clinical challenges: Long-term stability, immune response, and cost remain major barriers to adoption.
• Future direction: Smart dressings responsive to wound cues like pH, ROS, or enzymes are emerging as next-generation options.

Read the full article in Frontiers in Pharmacology

Keywords:
bioactive dressings,
tissue engineering,
hydrogel wound care,
growth factor delivery,
smart wound dressings

Chemical Compound Supercharges Antibiotics to Fight Chronic Wound Infections

Summary: Researchers have identified a chemical compound that potentiates antibiotic efficacy against *Pseudomonas aeruginosa* in chronic wound models. When combined, the compound and antibiotics significantly improved bacterial killing, potentially overcoming resistance in wound pathogens.

Key Highlights:

• Synergistic effect: The compound improves antibiotic penetration or disrupts bacterial defenses in biofilm-laden wounds.
• Model results: In vitro and ex vivo wound assays showed significantly higher kill rates compared to antibiotics alone.
• Resistance implications: The strategy may help reclaim lost efficacy of existing antibiotics in chronic wound management.
• Next steps: Authors call for in vivo trials, safety profiling, and exploration of delivery methods suitable for wound environments.

Read the article on ContagionLive

Keywords:
antibiotic potentiator,
chronic wound infections,
biofilm disruption,
drug synergy

The War Against Wound Care Fraud

Summary: This edition of Politico’s *Prescription Pulse* delves into growing concerns over fraudulent billing practices in wound care. It outlines regulatory investigations, case studies of abuse, and emerging legislative proposals aimed at tightening oversight in this high-cost area of healthcare.

Key Highlights:

• Fraud trends: Analysts report suspicious patterns in wound care claims, including repeated use of high-tier skin substitutes and procedure upcoding.
• Regulatory response: Federal agencies like HHS OIG and CMS are increasing audits, data analytics, and whistleblower incentives to combat misuse.
• Policy proposals: Suggestions include stricter prior authorization, usage caps, and outcome-based reimbursement linked to documented healing.
• Impact on clinicians: Honest providers are wary of increased scrutiny, documentation burdens, and payment denials, even when care is appropriate.

Read the full article on Politico

Keywords:
wound care fraud,
healthcare fraud oversight,
CMS audits,
regulatory proposals

Annual Pressure Injury Prevalence Study

Summary: This listing refers to a health library event hosted by Nova Scotia Health, but specific details about the topic or agenda were not found in the public access. Typically, such events may cover clinical education, library resources training, or specialized topic sessions relevant to healthcare providers.

Key Highlights (If details accessible):

• Organizer: NS Health / Nova Scotia Health Library
• Event ID: 3947400
• Likely topics: clinical information access, medical library orientation, specialty updates
• Target audience: Nova Scotia Health staff and affiliated clinicians

Visit the event page on NS Health Library

Keywords:
NS Health Library,
healthcare education,
library event

HHS OIG: We’ve Got Major Concerns About Massive Increases in Medicare Spending for Skin Substitutes

Summary: The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services’ Office of Inspector General (OIG) has raised alarm over a steep rise in Medicare spending on skin substitute products. The report questions whether current usage, reimbursement patterns, and outcome justification align with value-based care principles.

Key Highlights:

• Spending growth: The OIG cites a dramatic increase in Medicare expenditures for skin substitutes, suggesting potential overuse or misuse.
• Concerns raised: Points to gaps in documented effectiveness, inconsistent patient outcomes, and possible lack of oversight.
• Call for reform: Recommends more rigorous utilization controls, outcome benchmarking, and evidence-based coverage criteria.
• Implications for providers: Clinicians should ensure documentation supports clinical necessity and consider alternatives when evidence is limited.

Read the full article on Medical Economics

Keywords:
HHS OIG,
Medicare spending,
skin substitutes,
reimbursement concerns,
value-based care

SorbaView Shield: Revolutionizing Wound Care with Integrated Securement

Summary: SorbaView Shield is a novel transparent dressing designed to simplify wound monitoring. It integrates an adhesive securement mechanism, reducing the need for secondary fixation and dressing changes, while maintaining wound visibility and protection.

Key Highlights:

• Integrated securement: Built-in adhesive wings reduce reliance on tapes or secondary dressings.
• Transparent window: Allows continuous visual assessment of the wound bed without removal.
• Comfort & stability: Lightweight and conformable design supports patient mobility.
• Potential applications: Ideal for low to moderate exuding wounds and post-procedure dressing needs.

Read the article on Memesita

Keywords:
SorbaView Shield,
integrated securement,
transparent dressing,
wound monitoring

Advanced Hydrogels with Dual-Responsive Release for Enhanced Skin Regeneration

Summary: This study introduces a novel hydrogel system engineered to respond both to pH changes and enzyme activity in the wound microenvironment to deliver therapeutic agents in a controlled manner. In animal models, the material supported sustained release, reduced inflammation, and accelerated skin regeneration compared to conventional dressings.

Key Highlights:

• Dual-responsiveness: The hydrogel matrix degrades in response to acidic pH and elevated protease levels commonly found in chronic wounds.
• Therapeutic delivery: Growth factors and antimicrobial agents were encapsulated and released on demand, improving local efficacy.
• Biocompatibility: The hydrogel demonstrated low cytotoxicity and good compatibility in vitro and in vivo.
• Healing outcomes: Treated wounds showed enhanced epithelial closure, better collagen organization, and reduced scarring.

Read the full article in Nature

Keywords:
dual-responsive hydrogel,
smart wound dressings,
controlled release,
skin regeneration

An in-situ self-gelation photothermal alginate-based sponge dressing for rapid and effective wound management

Summary: A team of researchers has designed an innovative alginate-based sponge dressing (Alg-BA@PDA) that rapidly transforms into a gel within 5 seconds of contact with wound fluid. This self-gelation property allows it to conform tightly to wound surfaces. The addition of polydopamine nanoparticles (PDA-NPs) provides antimicrobial, antioxidant, and photothermal activity, leading to accelerated wound healing in preclinical studies.

Key Highlights:

• Rapid self-gelation: Dynamic borate ester bonds enable fast sponge-to-gel transition, adapting to the wound’s shape.
• Photothermal antibacterial effect: PDA-NPs generate mild heat under near-infrared (NIR) light, effectively reducing bacterial burden.
• Anti-inflammatory and angiogenic: Treatment reduced inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α) and increased angiogenic markers such as VEGF, HIF-1α, bFGF, and eNOS.
• Improved healing: In full-thickness wound models, Alg-BA@PDA with NIR exposure accelerated closure, enhanced collagen deposition, and promoted vascularization.
• Biocompatibility: Showed low cytotoxicity, high cell viability, low hemolysis, and consistent stability across different PDA-NP concentrations.

Read the full article in NPG Asia Materials

Keywords:
Jiahao An,
Lin Li,
Tingting Wu,
Zudong Lin,
Ruohan Ren,
Toyohisa Fujita,
Qian Liu,
Alg-BA@PDA,
self-gelation sponge dressing,
photothermal dressing,
antibacterial wound dressing,
wound healing innovation

Pressure Injury/Ulcer Imposters

Summary: In this lecture, Ryan Dirks, MS, PA, CWS explains how pressure injuries or ulcers are often misdiagnosed based solely on clinical history and exam. He outlines how “imposters” such as end-of-life skin changes and vascular wounds are frequently mistaken for pressure damage, and emphasizes the need for careful differential diagnosis.

Key Highlights:

• Diagnostic pitfalls: Historical and clinical clues alone may mislead clinicians into labeling a wound a pressure injury incorrectly.
• Common imposters: Conditions like skin changes in terminal patients and vascular ulcers often mimic pressure injuries.
• Clinical approach: A more rigorous examination of wound context, perfusion, patterns, and patient status is needed to distinguish true pressure injury.
• Implications: Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatment, mismanagement of underlying causes, and worsened outcomes.

Read the full lecture on Podiatry.com

Keywords:
Ryan Dirks, MS, PA, CWS,
pressure injury imposters,
ulcer misdiagnosis,
vascular ulcers,
end-of-life skin changes,
wound differential diagnosis

Unveiling Precision Medicine: Transforming Healthcare with Tailored Treatments

Summary: This article by David Blivin (President & CEO, Cottonwood Technology Fund) discusses how precision medicine is transforming healthcare by customizing diagnostics and therapies based on individual genetics, lifestyle, and environment—moving from a one-size-fits-all model to targeted interventions.

Key Highlights:

• Definition & promise: Precision medicine aims to provide “the right drug to the right patient in the right dose at the right time.”
• Successful fields: Oncology has led the way with targeted therapies based on biomarkers and genomics.
• Expanding domains: The article explores opportunities in cardiology, infectious disease, and immunology as precision approaches extend beyond cancer.
• Emerging tools: Biomarkers, AI, long-read sequencing, and novel molecular platforms like circular RNAs are highlighted as next-generation levers for personalization.
• Challenges: Barriers include cost, data integration, clinical translation, regulatory pathways, and equitable access.

Read the full article on Medical Tech Outlook

Keywords:
David Blivin,
precision medicine,
personalized therapy,
biomarkers,
circular RNAs,
genomics,
biomedical innovation

ICD-10 Code for Wound Care – Ultimate Guide for Documentation

Summary: This guide explains how to select appropriate ICD-10 diagnosis codes for various types of wounds (acute, chronic, surgical, pressure ulcers) to ensure optimal documentation, compliance, and reimbursement. It highlights the importance of specificity in wound coding and offers examples to minimize claim denials and maximize accuracy.

Key Highlights:

• Why specificity matters: Accurate documentation of wound type, location, severity, and complications supports valid coding, reduces denials, and improves patient care continuity.
• Open wound codes: Examples include S01.81XA (cutaneous laceration wound) and S91.301A (open wound of foot) depending on site and context.
• Surgical wound complications: Codes such as T81.31XA (disruption of surgical wound) and T81.4XXA (infection following procedure) apply when complications occur.
• Chronic wound codes: Use codes like L97.221 (non-healing ulcer of right calf) or L97.522 (ulcer on left foot) with detail on tissue exposure or breakdown.
• Pressure ulcer coding: Codes like L89.213 (stage 3 pressure ulcer on right buttock) and L89.154 (stage 4 on sacrum) capture severity and location.
• Best practices: Document wound depth, size, location, presence of infection, and repair or treatment steps to support correct ICD-10 assignment.

Read the full guide on Blogarama

Keywords:
Medical Billing And Coding Agency In USA,
ICD-10 coding,
wound care documentation,
acute wound codes,
chronic wound codes,
surgical wound complications,
pressure ulcer codes

Fellowships

Summary: The American Board of Wound Management (ABWM) offers a Fellowship program to recognize professionals who demonstrate advanced expertise, leadership, and contributions in the field of wound care. Achieving Fellow status reflects commitment to excellence and promotes standards within the discipline.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose: The Fellowship recognizes individuals with sustained impact, professional achievements, and contributions to education, research, and clinical practice in wound management.
• Eligibility: Candidates are typically Board-certified, with demonstrated experience and achievement in wound care over multiple years.
• Criteria: Evaluation factors include publications, leadership roles, mentorship, presentations, service to professional communities, and continuing education.
• Application process: Includes submission of a portfolio, review by a Fellowship committee, and approval based on merit and contribution to the field.
• Benefits: Fellows gain recognition, networking opportunities, professional credibility, and roles in advancing industry standards and education.

Visit the ABWM Fellowship page

Keywords:
ABWM,
Fellowship in wound care,
professional recognition,
wound care leadership,
career development

Improved vascular response to a novel polymeric blend PLLA/PLGA coronary scaffold material: preclinical study

Summary: This preclinical study evaluated a new bioresorbable coronary scaffold composed of a PLLA/PLGA blend using a porcine restenosis model. Compared with traditional crystalline PLLA scaffolds, the new amorphous polymer blend demonstrated lower inflammation, better endothelialization, and positive vessel remodeling over a 90-day period, suggesting improved safety and healing potential for next-generation bioresorbable devices.

Key Highlights:

• Scaffold types tested: PLLA 120 µm, PLLA 150 µm, and PLLA/PLGA 200 µm devices were implanted under identical conditions.
• Inflammatory response: The PLLA/PLGA scaffold showed more struts free of inflammation and lower injury scores than PLLA counterparts.
• Endothelial coverage: By 90 days, all scaffolds achieved near-complete endothelialization, but the PLLA/PLGA devices exhibited superior vessel remodeling.
• Lumen remodeling: The PLLA/PLGA scaffold uniquely demonstrated lumen enlargement between 30 and 90 days, a benefit not observed in the PLLA scaffolds.
• Material implications: Findings suggest that amorphous PLLA/PLGA blends may overcome limitations of crystalline PLA, improving biocompatibility and clinical outcomes.

Read the full article in Scientific Reports

Keywords:
Piotr P. Buszman,
Mateusz Kachel,
Karolina Łukasik,
Jerzy Nożyński,
Rafał Skowronek,
Maksymilian Grajek,
Magdalena Michalak,
Michał Sobota,
Janusz Kasperczyk,
Jerzy Małachowski,
Kamil Sybilski,
Marta Mazur,
Paweł Kaźmierczak,
Krzysztof P. Milewski,
Paweł E. Buszman,
bioresorbable scaffold,
PLLA/PLGA,
vessel remodeling,
inflammation control

Lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio is associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality among individuals with diabetes mellitus in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2018 cohort

Summary: Using data from NHANES (2003–2018), this study explored the prognostic value of the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) in people with diabetes. Among 2,327 participants followed for a median of 76 months, a higher LMR (>2.62) was linked to significantly lower risks of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality after adjusting for demographics, comorbidities, and laboratory measures.

Key Highlights:

• Population & design: 2,327 diabetic participants, stratified into low (≤2.62) vs high (>2.62) LMR groups.
• Mortality outcomes: High LMR group showed reduced all-cause mortality (HR ~0.64) and cardiovascular mortality (HR ~0.55).
• Predictive accuracy: AUC values ranged ~0.80–0.86 across 1–10 year follow-up, demonstrating strong prognostic performance.
• Nonlinear relationship: Benefits plateaued at higher LMR levels, suggesting diminishing returns.
• Clinical value: LMR is a simple, inexpensive biomarker that could enhance cardiovascular and overall risk stratification in diabetic patients.
• Limitations: Observational design, U.S.-based cohort, and reliance on single blood measurements limit causality claims.

Read the full article in BMC Cardiovascular Disorders

Keywords:
Anmin Ren,
Shanshan Cao,
Donghuo Gong,
Xinkai Qu,
lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio,
all-cause mortality,
cardiovascular mortality,
diabetes mellitus,
NHANES

Cold Plasma Therapy Study Halts: Concerns Over Clinical Relevance

Summary: A German consortium paused a major cold plasma therapy trial after determining that the study protocol was too detached from real-world clinical settings. While the plasma technology itself wasn’t at fault, the trial’s rigid design and lack of clinician involvement raised doubts about its interpretability and practical relevance.

Key Highlights:

• Protocol issues: Investigators cited poor alignment with clinical practice and insufficient input from end-users (clinicians, patients).
• Study context: The withdrawal came from a tripartite collaboration involving Neoplas Med, Terraplasma Medical, and Cinogy.
• Technology focus: Cold plasma therapy, which uses ionized gases at near-room temperature, has shown promise for wound healing by stimulating cells and reducing bacterial load.
• Pilot shift: The consortium plans to launch new pilot studies designed to better reflect real-world constraints and workflows in wound care settings.
• Lesson for innovation: The episode underscores that trial designs must reflect clinical practice realities, not just theoretical efficacy, to succeed.

View the full article on Memesita

Keywords:
Memesita,
cold plasma therapy,
clinical trial design,
real-world implementation,
Neoplas Med,
Terraplasma Medical,
Cinogy

Mechanisms of microbial infection and wound healing in diabetic foot ulcer: pathogenicity in the inflammatory-proliferative phase, chronicity, and treatment strategies

Summary: This narrative review examines how microbial infection disrupts the healing phases of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), particularly from inflammation to proliferation, and explores treatment strategies. The authors integrate microbial pathogenesis (e.g. virulence, biofilms, polymicrobial synergy) with wound biology to highlight how infection drives chronicity and delay. They also suggest multidimensional therapeutic approaches combining systemic and localized strategies.

Key Highlights:

• Pathogenesis of DFU/DFI: Infections impair healing by promoting persistent inflammation, extracellular matrix degradation, impaired angiogenesis, and immune dysregulation.
• Biofilms & virulence: Biofilm formation and microbial virulence factors shield pathogens, resist antibiotics, and perpetuate inflammatory stimuli.
• Polymicrobial dynamics: Gram-positive, gram-negative, anaerobes, and fungi interact within wound microbiomes, often synergistically worsening outcomes.
• Therapeutic strategy framework: The authors advocate a combined approach—glycemic control, antimicrobial therapy tailored to pathogens, debridement, offloading, vascular support, and intelligent dressings.
• Smart dressing evolution: Future wound dressings should integrate responsive systems (pH, ROS), controlled drug release, and functional enhancements like oxygen delivery or antimicrobial action.

Read the full article on Frontiers in Endocrinology

Keywords:
Qi Wang,
Chuyu Liu,
Jing An,
Jing Liu,
Yongpeng Wang,
Yulan Cai,
diabetic foot ulcer,
infection mechanisms,
chronic wounds,
smart dressings

Efficacy of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in the Management of Chronic Diabetic Foot Ulcer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Summary: This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed eight randomized controlled trials involving 672 patients, comparing extracorporeal shockwave therapies (ESWT) plus standard care versus standard care alone for diabetic foot ulcers. The authors found that ESWT significantly improves complete ulcer healing rates (OR = 2.747, p < 0.01) with low heterogeneity (I² = 0.02).

Key Highlights:

• Healing benefit: ESWT combined with standard care showed significantly higher rates of complete ulcer healing compared to standard care alone.
• Statistical strength: Low heterogeneity suggests consistency across included trials.
• Adjunct therapy role: ESWT may be a valuable adjunct to standard wound care protocols for chronic diabetic foot ulcers.
• Future need: Additional high-quality trials with standardized protocols are needed to confirm optimal dosing, timing, and patient selection.

Read the full article in Medical Sciences

Keywords:
Ruiz-Muñoz, M.,
Rueda-Zapata, L.,
Martinez-Barrios, F.-J.,
Nováková, T.,
Lopezosa-Reca, E.,
Gonzalez-Sanchez, M.,
Fernandez-Torres, R.,
Galan-Mercant, A.,
extracorporeal shockwave therapy,
diabetic foot ulcer,
meta-analysis

The impact of diabetes on the outcomes of lower extremity arterial disease in patients with vascular surgical interventions in Kosovo

Summary: This observational study in Kosovo evaluated how type 2 diabetes affects outcomes in patients undergoing vascular surgery for lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD). Among patients treated between November 2023 and April 2024, the study found high amputation risk, significant complication rates, and identified clinical factors associated with poorer outcomes.

Key Highlights:

• Patient demographics: Most were between ages 62–71; ~63% male; nearly all (96.3%) were managed with insulin.
• Adverse events: Toe gangrene requiring amputation occurred in ~25.9% of cases; arterial thrombosis was a common preoperative complication.
• Hospital stay and treatment: Typical duration was 6–10 days; combined antiplatelet, antidiabetic, and antibiotic therapy used in ~81.5% of patients.
• Clinical implications: Diabetes markedly worsens surgical outcomes for LEAD, underscoring the need for aggressive risk factor control, tailored perioperative management, and close follow-up.

Read the full article in the Italian Journal of Medicine

Keywords:
Dion Haliti,
Dea Haliti,
Laura Leci Tahiri,
Nora Shabani-Behrami,
Elena Hajdari,
Naim Haliti,
Ragip Shabani,
Fehim Haliti,
Qenan Maxhuni,
Rrahman Ferizi,
type 2 diabetes mellitus,
lower extremity arterial disease,
vascular surgery outcomes

Chronic Wound Infections: New Drug Therapy Hope

Summary: Scientists at the University of Oregon have identified a promising new therapy that combines low-dose chlorate with standard antibiotics to fight chronic wound infections. In laboratory tests against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common and stubborn wound pathogen, this combination improved antibacterial effectiveness by as much as 10,000-fold. The discovery could help restore the power of existing antibiotics, reduce treatment time, and minimize side effects for patients struggling with infected chronic wounds.

Key Highlights:

• New mechanism: Chlorate disrupts bacterial nitrate metabolism in low-oxygen wound environments, making pathogens more susceptible to antibiotics.
• Improved potency: Antibiotic efficacy increased dramatically, allowing for potential dose reductions.
• Clinical potential: The approach may shorten treatment duration, improve outcomes, and reduce toxicity in patients with chronic wound infections.
• Resistance relevance: This method could help combat antibiotic resistance by enhancing the effectiveness of existing drugs.
• Next steps: Further research and human clinical trials are needed to determine safety, dosage, and real-world effectiveness.

Read the full article on Time.News

Keywords:
Melanie Spero,
University of Oregon,
chlorate,
antibiotic synergy,
Pseudomonas aeruginosa,
chronic wound infection

8 Dermatology Headlines You Missed in September 2025

Summary: This monthly roundup from HCPLive compiles eight notable dermatology developments from September 2025. Topics include new FDA approvals (e.g., remibrutinib for chronic spontaneous urticaria, guselkumab for pediatric psoriasis, ruxolitinib cream in children), label expansions for therapies in epidermolysis bullosa, and research linking maternal diet and biologic therapy to dermatologic outcomes.

Key Highlights:

• FDA approved **remibrutinib** for chronic spontaneous urticaria, offering a new oral option.
• **Guselkumab (Tremfya)** received pediatric approval for plaque psoriasis in children age 6 and above.
• **Ruxolitinib cream** was approved for atopic dermatitis in children aged 2-11.
• **Beremagene geperpavec-svdt (Vyjuvek)** label updated to allow use from birth in dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa.
• Studies showed **maternal dietary diversity** is associated with reduced childhood eczema risk.
• A report pointed to **biologic therapy in psoriasis** correlating with lower malignancy risk.
• **Rocatinlimab** trials showed promising early results for treating atopic dermatitis.
• **Narrowband UVB phototherapy** was found effective for psoriasis in skin of color when other therapies weren’t tolerated.

Read the full article on HCPLive

Keywords:
Tim Smith,
Abigail Brooks,
dermatology headlines,
FDA approvals dermatology,
skin disease research

Application of Antimicrobial Peptides in Wound Dressings

Summary: This review article explores how antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) can be integrated into wound dressings to fight infection and support healing. It covers AMP classification, their antimicrobial mechanisms and immunomodulatory functions, and various strategies to deliver them via hydrogels, nanofibers, films, scaffolds, and sponges. Challenges in translation—like proteolytic degradation, peptide stability, controlled release, and scaling—are also discussed, along with future directions to bring AMP-based dressings into clinical use.

Key Highlights:

• AMP mechanisms: AMPs act via membrane disruption, intracellular targeting, and immune modulation to kill microbes and support tissue repair.
• Delivery systems: Hydrogels, electrospun fibers, films, scaffolds, and sponges are used to control AMP release and protect peptides in the wound environment.
• Hybrid platforms: Combining AMPs with responsive materials, metal nanoparticles, or exosome carriers can improve stability, targeting, and multifunctionality.
• Clinical potential: AMP dressings show promise in anti-biofilm activity, immunomodulation, and enhanced re-epithelialization for chronic wounds and burns.
• Translational barriers: Challenges include peptide instability in protease-rich fluids, delivery control, cytotoxicity risk, manufacturing cost, and limited human trials.
• Future directions: Focus areas include rational peptide engineering, smarter delivery platforms, standardized preclinical models, and early regulatory engagement to speed clinical translation.

Read the full article in DDDT

Keywords:
Aoxun Zhu,
Baiqi Chen,
Jing Ma,
Jiajia Wang,
Rongfang Tang,
Liangeng Liu,
Weixin Sun,
Xingzhong Zheng,
Guangtao Pan,
antimicrobial peptides,
wound dressings,
delivery platforms,
hybrid materials

The Pressure We Ignore: Why Stage 4 Bed Sores Are a Symptom of Texas’ Elder Care Crisis

Summary: This investigative article highlights the alarming prevalence of stage 4 pressure ulcers in Texas elder care facilities. It argues that these wounds represent more than clinical failure — they reveal systemic issues like chronic understaffing, lack of accountability, and neglect in long-term care settings.

Key Highlights:

• Stage 4 as a red flag: The article emphasizes that stage 4 bedsores are nearly always preventable, and their appearance in a care setting often signals neglect rather than inevitability.
• Broken oversight: It describes weak inspection enforcement, inconsistent penalty implementation, and regulatory gaps that let substandard facilities continue operating.
• Staffing & training deficits: Persistent shortages and insufficient training are identified as core drivers — caregivers are overextended and unable to follow preventive protocols consistently.
• Family role: The article encourages families to remain vigilant — visiting at varying times, asking about repositioning routines, and carefully documenting concerns.
• Need for systemic reform: It calls for stronger accountability, improved enforcement, and transparent reporting to prevent preventable harm in elder care settings.

Read the full article on Fort Worth Weekly

Keywords:
Glenna Hobbs,
stage 4 bed sores,
elder care crisis,
Texas nursing homes,
preventable wounds,
long-term care oversight

Two-drug combination shows promise in helping heal chronic wounds

Summary: A team at the University of Oregon discovered that pairing low-dose chlorate with conventional antibiotics increased antibacterial effectiveness by 10,000-fold against *Pseudomonas aeruginosa* in lab settings. This synergy offers a potential new strategy for tackling stubborn infections in chronic wounds, including those seen in diabetic foot ulcers.

Key Highlights:

• Synergistic effect: Chlorate enhances antibiotic potency, making bacteria much more vulnerable even under resistant conditions.
• Reduced dosing risk: The combination allows lower antibiotic dosages, potentially reducing side effects and toxicity.
• Mechanistic hint: Chlorate may interfere with bacterial nitrate respiration under low-oxygen wound conditions, stressing cells and exposing them to antibiotics.
• Clinical relevance: If translated to humans, this approach could shorten treatment durations and improve outcomes in chronic wound infections.
• Next steps: The authors note that complex wound microbiomes and in vivo testing must be addressed before clinical use.