Abstract
Study aimed to find out best option (systemic or local antimicrobial or combination of both) for treating venous leg ulcer infection. Patients’ files were reviewed retrospectively. Participants were divided into three groups. First group was treated by systemic antibiotics only (SABG). Second group received local antibiotics only (LABG). Third group was treated by combination of both (SLABG). Treatment strategies were compared based on multiple parameters using Pearson chi-squared test & relative risk (RR). 456 participants identified: 153 in SABG, 152 in LABG and 151 in SLABG. It was found that SLABG group was statistically significantly better than other single treatment strategies regarding all parameters (except bacterial resistance): (i) ulcer healing within usual duration (10-14 days) was 2.4 time higher (RR 2.4, 95% CI: 1.84, 3.12), (ii) probability of not recurring ulcer was 2.6 time higher (iii) probability of not getting increased wound size, abscess,cellulites was 5 times higher (iv) probability of not developing septicemia was 40% higher (v) probability of not requiring surgical intervention was 30% higher (vi) fewer patients needed prolonged hospitalization & lower cost was 8 times more likely (vii) patients were 3 times more satisfied during treatment .Probability of bacterial resistance was six times higher with SLABG and 5 times higher with SABG compared to LABG. For RR & CI values for all above parameters, see results below Ultimately, combination of both systemic and local antimicrobials may be best option to treat venous leg ulcer infection with out- weight with emergence of antibiotic-resistance microorganism.
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