Abstract
In this proof-of-concept study of twenty participants, we sought to determine if a DACC (Dialkylcarbamoyl chloride)-coated mesh dressing demonstrates an ability to adhere biofilm when placed on Diabetes Related Foot Ulcers (DRFUs) with chronic infection. The study also sought to determine if removal of the DACC-coated mesh dressings contributes to reducing the total number of bacteria in DRFUs, by exploring the total microbial loads, microbial community composition, and diversity. Standard of care was provided in addition to the application of DACC or DACC hydrogel every three days for a total of two weeks. Wound swabs, tissue curettage, and soiled dressings were collected pre and post-treatment. Tissue specimens obtained pre-treatment were analysed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and peptide nucleic acid fluorescent in situ hybridisation (PNA-FISH) with confocal laser scanning microscopy and confirmed the presence of biofilm in all DRFUs. SEM confirmed the presence of biofilms readily adhered to soiled DACC-coated mesh dressings pre- and post-treatment in all participants. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) demonstrated the mean total microbial load of DRFUs in 20 participants did not change after two weeks of therapy (pre-treatment = 4.31 Log10 16 S copies (±0.8) versus end of treatment = 4.32 Log10 16 S copies (±0.9), P = .96, 95% CI -0.56 to 0.5). 16 S sequencing has shown the microbial composition of DACC dressings and wound swabs pre- and post-treatment remained similar (DACC; R = -.047, P = .98, Swab; R = -.04, P = .86), indicating the microbial communities originate from the ulcer. Biofilms adhere to DACC-coated mesh dressings; however, this may not reduce the total microbial load present within DRFU tissue. Wound dressings for use in hard-to-heal wounds should be used as an adjunct to a good standard of care which includes debridement and wound bed preparation.