(CS-017) Case Studies to Evaluate the Performance of Superabsorbent Dressings Combined with Cohesive Two-layer Compression Bandages for Treating Highly Exuding Venous Leg Ulcers

Larua Leitch, TVN – TVN, NHS Ayrshire and Arran, Ayr, UK; Leah Griffin, MS – Director HEOR, Medical Affairs, Solventum

Introduction: Compression therapy increases healing and lowers recurrence of venous leg ulcers (VLUs).^1,2 These case studies investigated the clinical outcomes of superabsorbent dressings (SAD) for the management of highly exuding venous leg ulcers (VLUs) used in combination with a cohesive two-layer compression system (C2LC*).

Methods: Patients with highly exuding VLUs received treatment for two weeks with standard of care SAD (SOC-SAD) followed by four weeks with KC-SAD^†, both in combination with C2LC. Wound size reduction, edge maceration, and surrounding skin condition, as well as dressing leakage, saturation, and slippage, were assessed by the clinician and further patient-reported outcomes were captured after SOC-SAD and KC-SAD in addition.

Results: Positive healing progression was observed in 100% (9/9) of wounds treated with C2LC and KC-SAD. Little to no improvement was observed in 50% (5/10) of wounds treated with C2LC and SOC-SAD. Treatment was discontinued in 1 of 10 patients during the first SAD treatment phase. Wound size reduction led to use of smaller SAD sizes, with no significant difference in dressing saturation (0.45-0.46 g/cm², p-value=0.76418). KC-SAD significantly reduced dressing leakage frequency (p-value< 0.001) and improved maceration and surrounding skin conditions in all cases. No slippage was observed during use of C2LC with any SAD. Patients consistently reported enhanced comfort, less strike through and leakage, and a reduction in heat and moisture under the bandage. Dressing and compression related pain was reduced when using KC-SAD and C2LC.

Discussion: The use of KC-SAD with C2LC reduced wound edge maceration, promoted wound healing, and enhanced patient quality of life. Larger studies are required to confirm these improved outcomes.