A Case of Complete Epithelialization of an Extensive Foot Wound With Exposed Calcaneus Using Topical Cadexomer Iodine (CIOD) Monotherapy

TL;DR

A large foot wound exposing bone healed completely using only topical cadexomer iodine, showing its potential for treating hard-to-heal wounds.

Contribution

This is the first reported case of complete epithelialization of a large wound with exposed bone using cadexomer iodine monotherapy.

Findings

Topical cadexomer iodine achieved complete epithelialization of a large wound exposing bone.

CIOD's antimicrobial and debridement properties facilitated healing without surgery.

The case suggests CIOD monotherapy can preserve limbs in high-risk patients.

Abstract

Managing extensive chronic foot wounds with underlying bone exposure is challenging, particularly in patients who are poor candidates for extensive surgery. Cadexomer iodine (CIOD) is a hydrophilic, sustained‐release topical antimicrobial agent that has demonstrated efficacy in reducing bioburden, disrupting biofilms, and promoting autolytic debridement in chronic ulcers. To date, several reports have described epithelialization of small ulcers using CIOD alone, and others have documented epithelialization of larger ulcers when CIOD was combined with surgical procedures. However, no reports of complete epithelialization of large debrided wounds exposing bone with CIOD alone have been published. Herein, we report a case of complete epithelialization of a large debrided wound achieved with topical CIOD. This case highlights the potential utility of CIOD monotherapy for limb preservation through its sustained antimicrobial activity, inhibition of biofilm formation, control of exudate, and facilitation of autolytic debridement in high-risk patients.

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