An evaluation of Actilite - Antibacterial non-adherent dressing with Activon Plus: Case study 6

This study was undertaken by Jivka Dimitrova - Tissue Viability Specialist Nurse. The University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust

Case study 6

Female patient with an infected and dehisced abdominal laparotomy wound

A 71 year old lady referred to the tissue viability team for assessment and advice on management of infected and dehisced abdominal laparotomy wound. She had a history of rheumatoid arthritis (which was treated with steroids), right total knee replacement, hypothyroidism and anaemia.

Upon initial assessment the patient presented with 2 areas of dehiscence. Proximal area approximately 5cm x 2cm x 0.5cm, covered with thick patches of devitalised, necrotic tissue which had an offensive odour. Distal area approximately 12cm x 7cm x 7cm, again 100% of the base of the wound covered with thick, soft, necrotic tissue. The distal end of the wound was treated with topical negative pressure therapy, whilst the proximal end, with low exudate levels, was treated with Actilite to provide antibacterial properties, encourage debridement and reduce inflammation. The Actilite dressing was secured with a film dressing and changed every 3 days.

1 week later the proximal wound was approximately 90% clean and granulating, no evidence of infection (no systemic antibiotics were administered throughout the treatment), reduced local pain and no malodour. On next planned review, the proximal wound continued to show signs of improvement and was almost 100% clean and granulating.