Antimicrobials and Non-Healing Wounds: An Update

The global prevalence of non-healing wounds (also referred to as chronic wounds, hard-to-heal wounds or complex wounds) with mixed aetiologies has been estimated at 2.21 per 1000 population (1). The number of individuals developing non-healing wounds is increasing due to changing lifestyles (2) and an ageing population (3). These wounds therefore present a major social and
financial burden, not only for the affected individuals and their families, but also for healthcare systems around the world.
This document is aimed at two major audiences: healthcare providers of all types, who are tasked with providing hands-on care to patients with wounds, and researchers, who may derive ideas for future investigations from our suggestions and support when applying to funding agencies for research projects. The purpose of the document is to provide an update on existing knowledge on antimicrobials, including a general clinical approach to prescribing antimicrobials. It is not a guideline document and does not deal with particular topical products with antimicrobial agents.