Treatment of Hard-to-heal Upper Limb Wounds with Zinc Oxide Bandage

Abstract

This study evaluated a new protocol for treating difficult-to-heal wound on upper limbs, using products with polyhexamethylene biguanide 0.2 % and combinations with zinc oxide bandages, in outpatient clinics in Campos dos Goytacazes and at the Santa Casa de Misericórdia Hospital in São João da Barra, RJ. Ten patients with severe wounds on the upper limbs were selected based on specific criteria. The patients had severe wounds with impaired healing. The dressings included soap with polyhexame-thylene biguanide 0.2 % and combinations with bandages impregnated with Unna’s zinc oxide, changed every 4-5 days. The treatment proved to be effective, reducing edema and promoting the reabsorption of interstitial fluid by the lymphatic network, which improved local blood circulation and accelerated healing. The results indicate
that the protocol with Unna’s zinc oxide bandage is viable for centers treating difficult-to-heal wounds.