New method for bacterial load measurement during hydrodebridement of cutaneous ulcer

Abstract

AIM OF THE STUDY: Based on their experience using Versajet ® for debridement of chronic wounds, the Authors set up a study protocol to verify whether the hydrosurgical cleansing could offer the possibility of taking tissue specimens suitable for diagnostic microbiological evaluation. The aims of to study were the following:

MAIN PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy of hydrosurgery in detecting the presence of microorganisms and measuring their load, as an alternative to conventional tissue sampling methods; SECONDARY PURPOSE: To set up an easier and less invasive diagnostic modality than surgical biopsy, even though likewise significant.

RESULTS: The results of this study show that tissue specimen collection by hydro-aspiration using Versajet® is comparable to biopsy sampling (and in some cases it can be even more reliable); moreover, it is not more time-consuming and is certainly less invasive. Compared to surgical biopsy, with such a method a greater amount of tissue may be collected; moreover, tissue specimens can be taken from a broader surface or, depending on the needs, from a more focused area on the margin or at the bottom of the wound.