Disgustingly Healthy
biotherapy with leeches and maggots
biotherapy with leeches and maggots
Overuse of antibiotics and the selection of broad- rather than narrowspectrum agents have contributed to the high prevalence of methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization in diabetic foot wounds. Consequently, MRSA is now an endemic in both the community and hospital environments. We previously highlighted the problem of MRSA colonization in our diabetic foot clinic (40% of S. aureus isolates were MRSA). A follow-up study demonstrated that the number of foot wounds from which MRSA was isolated doubled in a 3-year period. Although terms such as critical colonization are not clearly defined, the risk of MRSA infection and bacteremia in patients with colonized ulcers is recognized. Furthermore, there is evidence that MRSA colonization of chronic ulcers is associated with delayed healing times. Strategies to eliminate MRSA from colonized wounds are therefore essential and should include the use of simple, low-cost, effective treatments.
read more (PDF, 53KB)
to download: right mouse button » “Save
as” » choose destination
The position of the NHS on maggot therapy is as follows:
"There are currently no maggot products licensed in the UK, however
clinicians can prescribe maggot products on a case by case basis where they
feel it is appropriate. An unlicenced prescription such as one for maggot
therapy is the responsibility of the individual clinician.
The Department of Health is currently funding a study to establish the effectiveness of maggot therapy and the findings are expected in early 2009.
The VenUS II randomised controlled trial is investigating the effectiveness of larval therapy (maggots) in the treatment of venous leg ulcers. It is carried out to compare the clinical and cost effectiveness of larval (maggot) therapy with a hydrogel dressing in people with sloughy and/or necrotic leg ulcers.
(Including monthly bulletins, background information and progress reports)
www.venus2.co.uk/