Deep wounds: Colostrum dressing versus conventional dressing

Abstract

Wound dressing plays an important role in wound healing. Newer type of wound dressings includes Biological dressings like collagen granules, colostrum powder, etc. that creates the physiological interface between the wound surface and environment which is impermeable to bacteria. This study was conducted to compare the efficacy of colostrum powder dressing with that of conventional dressing in the management of deep wounds. Hundred consecutive patients with deep wounds (stage II-IV), admitted during the study period were taken for study after considering inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients were randomly divided into two groups: Colostrum dressing (Group A: n-50) and Conventional dressing (Group B: n-50). The efficacy of both the dressings was compared using following indicators: Reduction in ulcer surface area, rate of granulation, decrease in pain score, percentage wound healing and hospital stay. It was found that the rate of granulation and reduction in ulcer area was significantly more with colostrums dressing (p< 0.05). Excellent results with wound healing were observed in 76% patients with colostrums dressing compared to 48% with conventional dressing (p< 0.05). Hospital stay for more than 3 weeks was required in 40% patients with conventional dressing compared to 18% with colostrums dressing (p< 0.05). Significant reduction in pain was observed in patients with colostrums dressing over subsequent follow ups (p<0.05).It was concluded that colostrum powder dressings are safe, promote faster wound healing, and have more patient compliance due to lesser pain. Results indicate that colostrum powder dressings can be used as an adjunct in management of deep wound.