A comparison of inpatients with leg ulceration using published randomised controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Leg ulcers are a significant burden and reduce patients' quality of life. In recent years, a plethora of information has been issued regarding leg ulcer management and 'the demographics of patients affected in the community. However, little is known about the leg ulcer population and how these patients should be managed in acute hospitals. AIM: To compare the demographic data of inpatients with leg ulcers referred to the tissue viability service in a large teaching hospital with data on leg ulcer populations in acute and community settings. METHODS: Inpatient demographic data were retrospectively obtained from electronic patient records. A literature search identified studies regarding leg ulcer populations in acute and community settings. RESULTS: The patient population in acute settings is around 10 years older than that in community settings, with much greater levels of comorbidity and higher mortality rates. CONCLUSION: An improved understanding of inpatients with leg ulcers would allow investigations and interventions to be targeted better, enabling evidence-based, patient-centred referral and care pathways. Further research is required to understand the aetiology and outcomes of leg ulcers for the inpatient population.