The role of topical metronidazole in the management of infected wounds

With an increasing ageing population, the presentation of chronic wounds has risen and as such there is a potential for an increase in infection rates. Infection can delay wound healing, cause malodour, excess exudate and pain, leading to further morbidity, reducing patient quality of life and increasing the cost of treatment. Topical antimicrobials can be used as part of a wound management plan to tackle infection, enabling chronic wounds to progress to healing, particularly if the wound has a decreased or depleted blood supply. Antibiotic
and antiseptic agents have varying antimicrobial activities and can be used in addition to debridement to treat infection. This article focuses on the role of topical metronidazole in treating infected, malodourous wounds and highlights the continued relevance of topical metronidazole in the management of infected wounds.