Volume 34 Number 2

This edition of Wound Practice and Research is broad and encompasses different wound types and relevant topic areas, reflective of our professions. Parker et al present a pathway of care for early detection of people at high risk of recurrence of venous leg ulcers in general practice. I am sure many of you will agree that recurrence is a very important issue that needs to be addressed. Wound recurrence is costly and has negative impacts on the person and the health system. It is therefore encouraging to see Parker et al attempting to find solutions to this complex problem. The authors concluded that the pathway of care that they designed, which incorporated a specific risk assessment tool, could provide benefits to the person, the system and healthcare professionals, but recognise that further work needs to be done.

Lashkarizadeh et al examine the effectiveness of a topical cream containing pimecrolimus 1% in preventing scar formation. They found that this has a potential in reducing hypertrophic scar formation and propose the mechanism could involve fibroblast proliferation, angiogenesis and collagen remodelling. It is encouraging that clinicians may soon have more options to offer patients to manage scarring, which is frequently overlooked in wound management.

Larsen et al present a case report of a person with a high risk foot complicated with verrucous squamous cell carcinoma transformation in a previous amputated toe site. This case study highlights the complexity of managing patients with high risk feet and that delays in diagnosis can lead to adverse outcomes. Additionally, it highlights the importance of a biopsy when wounds are not following an expected trajectory with best practice care, and importance to maintain suspicion of atypical wounds at all times.

Montalto et al present the scoping review protocol which is on a hot topic in wound care: artificial intelligence (AI). Whilst we won’t be replaced by computers just yet, our practice may be enhanced with different aspects of AI. Wound assessment is a logical first step, followed by potential wound management assistance. Montatlo et al explore what barriers clinicians are likely to face in integrating AI into wound care and, furthermore, what enablers may be present to enhance the use of AI. We look forward to seeing the outcomes of this project in the long term.

To round out this edition, one of the favourite topics of nutrition is presented by Sarchio et al. The authors present a review of nutrition and chronic wound care and conclude that nutritional assessment tools are crucial for identifying deficiencies in patients with chronic wounds. They suggest that oral formulations which are enriched with protein, arginine, zinc and anti-oxidants have demonstrated efficacy in enhancing wound healing outcomes. However, Sarchio et al also  recognise that there are numerous implementation challenges including systemic barriers, adherence and resources. Nutrition deficiencies are common in patients with common wounds and the impacts should not be underestimated. It is therefore timely that this review highlights the impact of addressing these underlying deficiencies and the positive outcomes that follow.

We hope you enjoy this edition and remind you that our biennial conference will be held in beautiful Adelaide 23-26 August. The program looks incredible and features international and national experts in wound management. We have had the greatest number of abstracts ever received and look forward to hearing the latest innovations in wound care. There are, of course, also a range of social events and industry events that will be sure to provide opportunities to connect with fellow wound clinicians. We all hope to see you there and we will be publishing the abstracts in our next edition.

Author(s)

Zlatko Kopecki and Peta Tehan
Editors, Wound Practice and Research