Ulcer duration
Ulcer duration was noted in days from the onset of the ulcer
to the date of when the patient was included in the study
(i.e. at the first registration). Healing time was defined as the
number of days taken for the ulcer to heal.
Ulcer size
Ulcer size was measured in cm2, either with a digital
planimeter (Visitrak) or by multiplying the length and width
of the ulcer. If the patient had more than one ulcer, the total
ulcer size was documented.
Ulcer infection
Ulcer infection was documented when the ulcer showed more
pronounced pain, exudate, redness around the ulcer, or oedema,
and healing was delayed as a result. In such cases the responsible
physician ordered more frequent dressing changes and
antimicrobial treatment for the next 1-2 weeks, during which
time the patient was followed closely by their assigned ‘ulcer
nurse’. If this strategy did not clear the infection, antibiotics
were prescribed according to the result of the swab.