Impact of Continuous Topical Oxygen Therapy on Fluid Handling

Introduction

Continuous Topical Oxygen Therapy (cTOT) is becoming increasingly recognized as a valuable adjunct to good standard of care in non-healing chronic wounds. Compelling evidence supporting the impact of cTOT on wound progression, healing, and pain management is reported in primary research and various recent meta-analyses.

As part of wound bed preparation, moisture balance of the wound bed is important in wound healing. A dynamic fluid handling test system was used to assess fluid transfer from a simulated wound bed through the open structure of the Oxygen Delivery System (ODS) of the continuous Topical Oxygen Therapy (cTOT) device into an absorbent secondary dressing.

Results

• Data confirms that the ODS component of the cTOT system does not impair fluid transfer from the wound bed to the absorbent dressing
• No marked differences were noted in moisture vapor transmission (MVT) or overall fluid handling capacity (FHC)

Discussion

cTOT is an adjunctive therapy that supports faster healing and pain reduction in non-healing hypoxic wounds. cTOT use is endorsed and recommended by international expert guidance including the IWGDF, WHS, and the ADA. Moisture balance in a wound is also essential for wound healing to progress. This laboratory test simulating clinical use of the cTOT system with an absorbent dressing confirms that the ODS does not impede the flow of fluid from the wound bed to the dressing while providing supplementary oxygen to the wound.

Authors:

Matthew Sharp, Dmitry Isaev, Lousie Barry, Paul Fram, Emma Woodmansey, PhD, Windy Cole, DPM