Novel therapies developed for the treatment of leg ulcers: focus on physical therapies

Abstract

Chronic venous leg ulcers are common. If good ulcer care alone does not lead to healing, other treatment options are warranted. Physical therapies have gained a wider interest in wound healing in general. In the present review, the authors will focus on recent advancements in various types of physical leg ulcer treatment (except compression therapy). Available evidence suggests that low-frequency therapeutic ultrasound, negative topical pressure therapy and electrical stimulation can contribute to improved wound healing, while other technologies need further research. Major effects include stimulation of granulation, microcirculatory effects, debridement and disinfection, which may result in higher healing rates and more rapid healing. These techniques are not negatively influenced by either bacterial multiresistance. They can also be used when there are limited budgets for drug therapies.