Alternative Wound Management: Translating Science into Practice

ABSTRACT Effective wound healing is achieved by well-timed host, cell, and environment interactions involving hemostasis, inflammation, formation of repaired dermal structures, and epithelialization, followed by months to years of scar remodeling. Globally, various natural or synthetic agents or dressings are used to optimize wound environments, prolong drug release, aid in fluid absorption, provide favorable healing environments, and act as a mechanical barrier against wound trauma. In this scoping review of evidence from the PubMed and clinicaltrials.gov databases, authors examined clinical study evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of selected phytochemicals, vehicles, polymers, and animal products considered “naturally derived” or “alternative” wound interventions to provide a summary of preclinical evidence. Agents with the most clinical evidence were honey, alginates, polyurethane, gelatin, and dextran. Practice implications are described in the context of the TIMERS clinical paradigm. GENERAL PURPOSE To present a scoping review of preclinical and clinical trial evidence supporting the efficacy and/or safety of major alternative wound care agents to summarize their effects on validated elements of wound bed preparation and wound management paradigms. TARGET AUDIENCE This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care. LEARNING OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES After participating in this educational activity, the participant will: 1. Differentiate the effectiveness of the topical wound care agents included in this review. 2. Compare the preventive efficacy of intravenous agents administered to trauma and surgical patients. 3. Select the effectiveness of products in this review that are left in place after surgical procedures. 4. Identify an oral agent that can be helpful in mitigating the effects of COVID-19.