A comparative study between the efficacy of simple collagen dressing and antimicrobial-based collagen dressing in the treatment of diabetic and non-diabetic ulcers

Background: Chronic ulcers, especially diabetic foot ulcers, pose significant clinical challenges due to prolonged healing time, high infection rates, and increased health-care costs. Aims and Objectives: This study evaluates and compares the efficacy of simple collagen sheet dressing and antimicrobial-based collagen ointment dressing in treating diabetic and nondiabetic ulcers. Materials and Methods: The study employs a prospective, comparative research design. A total of 100 patients with chronic ulcers were included in this study. They were randomly (simple randomization by random number generator software, Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 22) assigned to two groups: one group received antimicrobial-based collagen ointment dressings (n=50), and the other received simple collagen sheet dressings (n=50). The primary outcomes measured included wound size reduction, granulation tissue formation, infection rates (pus discharge), and epithelialization. Follow-up assessments were made at 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42 days. Results: The simple collagen sheet group showed faster wound healing, greater granulation tissue formation, reduced infection, and significantly lower Bates–Jensen wound assessment tool scores over time (P<0.0001). Differences were notable in both diabetic and non-diabetic cohorts. Conclusion: Simple collagen sheet dressings provide superior outcomes versus antimicrobial-based collagen ointment dressings, especially in non-diabetic ulcers. Wider adoption in clinical practice is recommended.