Spectra of bacterial growth in ulcers

Objectives: To study the spectra of bacterial growth in ulcers in patients and to compare the range and efficacy of Povidoneiodine, Nitrofurazone and silver sulphadiazine with Metronidazole with sucralfate as topical agents. Methods: 100 patients with different types of ulcers with either foul smell or showing response to systemic or local treatment were selected and divided into two groups. Study Group or Group A: 1% Metronidazole gel with sucralfate. Control group or Group B: for burns and scalds silver sulphadiazine, for trophic ulcers nitofurazone (Furacin ) in remaining types of ulcer/wounds Povidone iodine (Betadine) ointment was used. Periodic debridement of ulcer/wound was done in both the groups as per requirement. Other general and specific treatment of the patient with regard of his illness was same in both the groups. Systemic antibiotics were given, bacteriological and clinical assessment was daily done. Results: 93% of cases in Group A and 42% in Group B showed grade III healing within 35 days. Healing was over all faster in Group C and 95% reached grade III within 35 days. One patient in Group B died after 24 days with no signs of healing and remaining 18 patients were converted to Group C after 45 days of treatment. In Group C one patient absconded with grade II healing. Conclusion: It was observed that results with topical Metronidazole with sucralfatewere definitely superior as compared to Povidone iodine, Nitrofurazone or Silver sulfadiazine.