In-patient management of leg ulcers

Abstract

Objective: To review in-patient management of leg ulcers and to compare our experiences with those from other similar centres.
Design: A retrospective study.
Setting: University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.
Patients: Forty five patients hospitalisad with leg ulcers.
Results: There were 27 male and 18 females (MF 3:2). The age range was 8-90 years (mean 32.5 years). The commonest sites were around the ankle(55.6%) and the distal third of the leg (40%). Trauma, dibb muitus and sickleell dkaw accounted Tor the commonest aetiological factors(35.6%, 22.2% and 17.8% respctively). Coliorw and Staphylococcus aureus were the commonest organisms isolated on culture. AU the patients had routine wound dressing and antibiotics but only 25 patients (56%) responded fully to this Line of preliminary management. The other 20 patients had wound debridement in addition. Nineteen patients(42% ) needed skin grafting while four patients (9%) had below-knee amputation.
Conclusion: Our experience shows that leg ulcers whose nature portend an increase in morbidity and mortality are best managed as in-patients. The underlying causes should be addressed while local wound care is administered. Skin grafting and amputation sbould be employed when necessary.