SAFETY AND EFFICIENCY OF CARBOXIMETHYLCELLULOSE HYDROGEL 2% IN LEG ULCERS SEGURANÇA E EFICÁCIA DO HIDROGEL DE CARBOXIMETILCELULOSE À 2% EM ÚLCERAS DE PERNA* EVALUACIÓN DE LA SEGURIDAD Y EFICACIA DEL USO DEL HIDROGEL À 2% EN ULCERAS DE PIERNAS

Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the efficiency and safety on using hydrogel carboxymethylcellulose 2%, handled at university pharmacy in treatment of patients with leg ulcers. Method: A non-controlled prospective clinic study with 20 patients took place from January to October 2010. Results: The efficiency assessment was performed through the wound area reduction and wound bed tissue alteration; the safety was assessed through observation and report of adverse events. The data showed that 33.3% of the lesions presented total healing. Regarding the safety, only 2 patients reported pain, increase of the exudate and wound infection as possible adverse reaction to the use hydrogel as dressing, according to the Naranjo algorithm. Conclusion: The results let us consider that the hydrogel 2% can be considered efficient and safe for this type of lesion. Descriptors: Nursing, Leg ulcers, Safety, Efficiency, Hydrogel.