Use of activated charcoal combined with silver for diabetic foot ulcer

Abstract

Most wounds heal by primary intention, in which the edges of the incision are brought together using sutures, staples, or clips. However, certain wounds may be left open to heal (if there is a risk of infection or there has been considerable tissue loss). These wounds are known as wounds healing by secondary intention. The secondary intention approach is a time-honoured practice with a solid track record. It is sometimes neglected as a good option to urgent repair of wounds, which is unfortunate given the proliferation of many reconstructive procedures that have emerged in recent decades. In certain instances, the aesthetic and functional outcomes of secondary intention healing are on par with those of more difficult reconstructive surgical procedures. This case demonstrates the efficacy of wound closure achieved by secondary intention with the use of activated charcoal combined with silver, which led to extraordinary results.