The role of Renasys-GO™ in the treatment of diabetic lower limb ulcers: a case series.

Abstract

Introduction: This case series aims to study the effectiveness of Renasys-GO™ negative pressure wound therapy system in the healing of diabetic lower limb ulcers.

Materials and methods: An electronic vacuum pump (Renasys-GO™, Smith & Nephew GmbH) was used to apply negative pressure wound therapy on wounds, with pressure settings determined according to clinical indication. Changes in wound dimension, infection status and duration of treatment were recorded over the course of Renasys-GO™ therapy in 10 patients with diabetic lower limb ulcers.

Results: Healing was achieved in all wounds, three by secondary closure and seven by split-thickness skin grafting. Eight wounds showed a reduction in wound size. The average duration of treatment with Renasys-GO™ therapy was 15.9 days, and all wounds showed sufficient granulation and were cleared of bacterial infection at the end of therapy.

Conclusions: Renasys-GO™ therapy may be beneficial in the treatment of diabetic lower limb ulcers and wounds. In this study, which included wounds presenting as post-surgery ray amputation, metatarsal excision wounds, post-debridement abscesses and ulcers, the Renasys-GO™ therapy prepared all wounds for closure via split-thickness skin grafting or secondary healing by promoting granulation tissue and reducing bacterial infection in approximately 2 weeks.