Nanocrystalline silver dressing in wound management: A prospective study.

Abstract

Background: The incidence of diabetes and its complications is rising as a result of the lifestyle changes. The foot is most frequent site for complication in patients with diabetes. Dressings have a vital part to play in the management of wounds. Nanotechnology makes it possible to expand the surface area of silver particles markedly to nanoscale. They expand the surface area of silver particles increasing their contact with bacteria. In the proposed study, over a period of 3 months, 60 cases (30-30 in 2 groups) of chronic wounds were studied with respect to response (healing) to nano silver dressing and sulfadiazine dressing after dividing them randomly. Assessment was based on various parameters like size reduction, healthy granulation tissue, etc. It was seen that percentage reduction in size, was more in nano silver group as compared to sulfadiazine group. Wounds were managed successfully, early in nano silver group and wound healing was better in nano silver group as compared to sulfadiazine group. Also, nano silver was better antimicrobial. Conclusions: The prospective study showed nano silver gel is safe and effective in wound management and gives better efficacy and faster response as compared to traditional sulfadiazine dressing