Debridement

treatMent PrOtOcOl

In each case an ALH calcium alginate dressing was applied 

to non-viable tissue and covered with an absorbent cover 

dressing.  Dressings were changed every other day or one to 

two times per week or as needed for strike-through. Wound 

photography was performed on a weekly basis to document 

progression of debridement.

reSultS

Dressings with ALH demonstrated the ability to promote 

debridement of necrotic tissue for five patients with lower 

extremity non-healing wounds.  Several patients who were 

unable to tolerate hydrogel therapy reported improved 

dressing tolerance with the use of ALH.  Improvement 

in all wounds was documented. There was a decreased 

percentage of non-viable tissue, increased percentage 

of granulation tissue,  and increased dressing tolerance. 

The investigators confirmed that ALH dressings were an 

effective, first-line choice for debridement and wound bed 

preparation for these cases.

cOncluSiOn

Debridement is a vital part of the successful management of 

chronic wounds.  ALH’s ability to effectively aid debridement 

was observed in this group of five patients with differing 

wound types.  Additional improved dressing tolerance were 

noted.  The dressings were easy to use and well received 

by caregivers and patients.  As a result ALH dressings are 

considered an adjunctive therapy for successful wound 

treatment in our program.  Further studies are indicated.

Evidence Supporting the Use of MEDIHONEY

®

 Debridement of lower extremity wounds with ALH

 Becky Strilko RN, BSN, CWOCN, APN; Chris Barkauskas RN, BA, CWOCN, APN;  

  Andrea McIntosh, RN, BSN, CWOCN, APN, Silver Cross Hospital, Joliet, IL

 Poster Presentation, April 2010,  Orlando, FL

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