Copper Oxide Impact On Non-Healing Ulcers(COIN trial)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Randomised Controlled Trial on the Effect of Copper Impregnated Wound Dressings on Chronic Leg Ulcers
IRAS ID
273285
Contact name
Abdul Sultan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Croydon Health Services
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Non-healing ulcers of the lower limbs are defined as a chronic wound of the lower limb that has failed to sufficiently heal despite standard treatment at 4 weeks. Their incidence within in the community ranges from 1-2% in the UK and Ireland. Despite this, they pose a significant burden to patients as they can lead to chronic pain, self-esteem loss, and social isolation. The prevalence of infection is very high in chronic wounds, which further delays their healing and so leads to increased patient morbidity and mortality. With an increase in antibiotic resistance, effective alternatives are required. Copper has shown be an effective anti-microbial with the ability to kill a number of bacteria including MRSA. It has also been shown to directly aid wound healing by promoting the formation of blood vessels and proteins needed for skin repair. We plan to perform a study to investigate the effect of copper oxide impregnated wound dressings on chronic ulcers. Patients will be randomised for a copper wound dressing (study group) or without copper: standard therapy (control group). Both the clinician and the patient will be blinded to the randomised group and wound dressing frequency would be in line with the patient’s routine care plan. Wound healing and infection will be assessed fortnightly at till 12 weeks follow-up using photography and wound swabs.
REC name
London - Surrey Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
20/LO/0142
Date of REC Opinion
22 Apr 2020
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion