Shock Wave Therapy for Acute and Chronic Soft Tissue Wounds: A Feasibility Study
Title: Shock Wave Therapy for Acute and Chronic Soft Tissue Wounds: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Wolfgang Schaden, M.D., Richard Thiele, M.D., Christine Kölpl, M.D., Michael Pusch, M.D., Aviram Nissan, M.D., Christopher E. Attinger, M.D., F.A.C.S., Mary E. Maniscalco-Theberge, M.D., F.A.C.S., George E. Peoples, M.D., F.A.C.S., Eric A. Elster, M.D., F.A.C.S., and Alexander Stojadinovic, M.D., F.A.C.S.
This study explores the potential of shock wave therapy (SWT) for promoting the healing of acute and chronic soft tissue wounds. Nonhealing wounds can greatly impact the quality of life for millions of individuals. The study aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of SWT as a treatment approach for these types of wounds.
Over a two-year period, 208 patients with complicated, nonhealing soft tissue wounds were enrolled in the trial. The treatment regimen consisted of debridement, outpatient SWT sessions (ranging from 100 to 1000 shocks per square centimeter), and moist dressings. The patients were followed up for an average of 44 days.
Results showed that 75% of the enrolled patients achieved 100% wound epithelialization, indicating complete healing. No treatment-related complications or infections were reported during the study period, demonstrating the safety of SWT for soft tissue wounds. The intent-to-treat analysis identified age, wound size, and duration of the wound as factors influencing the likelihood of complete healing.
These findings indicate that SWT is a feasible and well-tolerated strategy for managing acute and chronic soft tissue wounds. It offers a potential alternative treatment option to enhance wound healing and improve patient outcomes. The success of this study has led to the evaluation of SWT in a Phase III trial for acute traumatic wounds, highlighting its potential for broader applications in wound care.
Overall, SWT shows promise as a non-invasive and safe therapeutic approach to accelerate wound healing, providing hope for individuals suffering from nonhealing soft tissue wounds. Further research and trials will continue to explore the full potential of SWT in improving wound healing outcomes.