Pérez, Y. L., Medina, J. A., Perez, I. L., & Garcia, C. M. (2011). Prevention and treatment of radiodermatitis using a non-adhesive foam dressing. Journal of Wound Care, 20, 130–135.
To measure healing (defined as complete re-epithelialization of the wound) and injury progression during radiation therapy (RT).
Data were collected daily from the onset of wet dermatitis until its resolution.
All patients received routine care, as described in the departmental protocol for the treatment of radiodermatitis.
The agent used was Mepilex Lite—a nonadhesive, thin, absorbent foam dressing with a soft silicone layer and film backing.
Participants were examined weekly based on Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) Assessment Criteria 0 to 4
At onset of moist/wet desquamation, daily records were kept regarding the progression of lesions with photographs and a pain assessment until full healing was achieved.
This was an observational study with no blinding.
All wounds (20/20) progressed to full healing.
No infections occurred.
Mean total healing time was 9.5 days (range 3–22 days).
Patient rating of experience (scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the worst and 10 being the best)
Positive clinical and patient-centered outcomes were observed.
Although the observational study showed efficacy and safety in a small number of patients, further studies need to be developed that include blinding, randomization, controls, and potential for multicenter involvement.
Moist wound healing has been shown in numerous studies to be beneficial for healing, although there have been conflicting results with the use of hydrocolloidal dressings. Consideration as to cost-effectiveness and patient ability to access dressings without significant out-of-pocket costs must be determined.