Use of a biosynthetic cellulose dressing in chronic venous leg ulcer healing: a self-controlled clinical service evaluation study

Aims: To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of Epiprotect, a biosynthetic cellulose (BC) dressing, in promoting healing of chronic venous leg ulcers (VLUs). Methods: A study at two community wound care centres involved 20 patients who received 4 weeks of standard care, followed by 8 weeks of standard care plus the application of Epiprotect. Outcomes measured included percentage wound area reduction (PWAR), pain, exudate, adherence, and the number of Epiprotect sheets used. Healing was evaluated clinically and via photos, with feedback from staff and patients. Results: Epiprotect led to consistent and significant improvements. PWAR increased (p=0.046 and p=0.017). By the end, 11 participants had achieved over 75% healing, out of those 8 had achieved over 90%, and 3 had complete closure. Pain scores fell to zero by weeks 10–12 (p<0.01), and exudate levels decreased (p=0.021). Adherence increased to 100% by week 12 (p=0.035), and strong correlations were observed among adherence, healing, and pain reduction (r>0.7, p<0.05). The average number of sheets used per patient was 2.20±1.05. Visual assessment showed better peri-ulcer skin and granulation tissue. Nursing staff found Epiprotect easy to apply and effective, while patients emphasised rapid pain relief and comfort. Conclusion: This evaluation shows that Epiprotect improves healing, reduces pain and exudate, and enhances adherence in chronic VLUs with minimal dressings. Patients and staff find it suitable for community care. Results support the need for larger trials comparing Epiprotect with standard care and other dressings.