The use of super-saturated sucrose solution for chronic skin ulcers (resurrection of an old remedy)
Bhanganada, K.; Kiettiphongthavorn, V.; Wilde, H.
Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand 69(7): 358-366
1986
ISSN/ISBN: 0125-2208 PMID: 3760735 Document Number: 276896
Chronic skin ulcers create much suffering, prolonged hospitalization and expense. They may lead to life-threatening complications such as sepsis or direct extension into deep organs. Methods of treating such indolent chronic ulcers have varied and none have been consistently effective. The authors are presenting their experience with super-saturated sucrose solution as continuous compressses in the treatment of chronic skin ulcers. Super-saturated sugar solution appears to eliminate some gram-negative bacteria and suppresses the growth of the majority of other bacterial. It is non-toxic and non-irritating and appears to promote healing. After completion of this study, we have embarked on a non-blind crossover evaluation of a sucrose in polyethylene glycol suspenson for the management of chronic ulcers. A preliminary review of results indicates that the sugar suspension is easier to apply and at least as affective as the sucrose solution in sterilizing ulcers and promotion of healing.