Wolfgang Schaden, M.D., Richard Thiele, M.D., Christine Kölpl, M.D., Michael Pusch, M.D., Aviram Nissan, M.D., Christopher E. Attinger, M.D., F.A.C.S., Mary E. Maniscalco-Theberge, M.D., F.A.C.S., George E. Peoples, M.D., F.A.C.S., Eric A. Elster, M.D., F.A.C.S., and Alexander Stojadinovic, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Nonhealing wounds are a major, functionally-limiting medical problem impairing quality of life for millions of people each year. Various studies report complete wound epithelialization of 48 to 56% over 30 to 65 d with different treatment modalities including ultrasound, topical rPDGF-BB, and composite acellular matrix. This is in contrast to comparison control patients treated with standard wound care, demonstrating complete epithelialization rates of 25 to 39%. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) may accelerate and improve wound repair. This study assesses the feasibility and safety of ESWT for acute and chronic soft-tissue wounds.