Evidence for silver in wound care - meta-analysis of clinical studies from 2000-2015.

BACKGROUND: Given that the scientific evidence for silver in wound care is generally considered insufficient, there is uncertainty among users regarding its clinical use.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: A group of experts evaluated the clinical studies on silver in wound management published from 2000-2015.

RESULTS: Overall, 851 articles were identified, 173 of which were included and categorized. There were 31 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and eight cohort studies. Twenty-eight of these studies showed statistically significant outcome parameters in support of silver. While nine of these studies investigated burn injuries, 20 addressed other indications (venous leg ulcers: 9; pressure ulcers: 3; chronic wounds: 2; diabetic foot ulcer: 1; other types of wounds: 5). In 16 studies, the primary parameter was wound healing, whereas quality of life including pain was assessed in twelve studies; cost-effectiveness, in eight studies; reduction of bacterial load, in three studies. Based on these results, a treatment algorithm for the clinical use of silver in wound care has been developed.

CONCLUSIONS: The present meta-analysis shows that the evidence base for silver in wound management is significantly better than perceived in the current scientific debate. Thus, if used selectively and for a limited period of time, silver not only has antimicrobial effects but is also characterized by an improvement in quality of life and good cost-effectiveness.