Efficacy and tolerance of a hydrocolloid dressing containing hyaluronic acid for the treatment of leg ulcers of venous or mixed origin

ABSTRACTObjective: This study was aimed at comparing efficacy and tolerance of a new hydrocolloid dressing containing hyaluronic acid (HC + HA) to a reference hydrocolloid not containing hyaluronic acid (HC) in the treatment of leg ulcers of venous or mixed origin.Research design and methods: This was an open, prospective study, randomized in parallel groups, in which 125 patients were enrolled and treated for up to 42 days. The primary efficacy criterion was the reduction of the wound area; other efficacy criteria were the condition of the wound bed, and of the surrounding skin, and presence and severity of symptoms such as pain and itching.Results: After 42 days of treatment the median reduction of ulcer area was −42.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: −66.6; −5.7) and −31.0% (95% CI: −51.6; −8.8) in the HC + HA group and in the reference HC group, respectively. The difference between treatments was not statistically significant. A reduction ≥ 90% of the initial ulcer area was seen in 15 patients in the H...