Role of Adjuvant Topical Oxygen Therapy (Topox) Versus Conventional Methods in The Management of Non-Healing Infected Wounds

Abstract

Objectives: To compare the role of adjuvant topical oxygen therapy versus conventional methods in the management of non-healing infected wounds. Study Design: Simple comparative study. Setting: The study was carried out in one year duration from January 2010 to December 2010 in Surgical unit-1 Allied Hospital Faisalabad. Sample Size: 60 patients.  Methods: Total of 60 patients was divided into two groups. In one group (A) topical oxygen therapy was given along with conventional measures for management of wound. In second group (B) only conventional methods were used for wounds. Results: 60 cases included in this study,30 in group A and 30 in group B. From patients of group A, 16(53.3%) showed clinical improvement in first week and 25(83.3%) showed clinical improvement in second week. While in group B 5(17%) and 11(36.7%) showed clinical improvement in first and second week respectively.5(17%) patients in group A developed granulation tissue in first week and 19(63%) in second week. While in group B 2 (7%) developed granulation tissue in first week and 8(27%) in second week. From group A 10(33.3%) and 24(80%) patients showed complete wound healing in second and third months respectively. In group B 3(10%) patients showed complete wound healing in two months and 12(40%) in three months.1(3.3%)patient in group A deteriorated in first week and 2(7%) in second week.8(27%)patients from group B deteriorated in first week and 4(13.3)in second week. Conclusion: Use of TOPOX along with conventional method is more safe and effective in the management of non-healing infected wound than conventional methods alone.