Article type
Year
Abstract
Introduction: To inform a reorganization of services related to chronic wounds, a leg ulcer prevalence study was conducted in one large, mixed urban-rural, Canadian region (n= 800,000). As a first step in planning, it was important to understand the magnitude of the problem. The accuracy of prevalence and incidence data would be essential (Tugwell et al, 1995).
Objectives: A systematic review of published epidemiology studies of leg ulcers was conducted to determine if there is a standard method and to assess the feasibility/applicability of these within the Canadian health care system.
Methods: A guideline for assessing incidence and prevalence studies and specific criteria for critical appraisal of study methods were used (Loney, Chambers, Bennett, Roberts & Stanford, 1998). The approach involved a defined retrieval, searching and critical appraisal methodology for the observational studies. Research published in the past 25 years was sought. Studies prior to this period would have limited relevance given the substantive changes in populations and health services delivery over this time. Using a data extraction form, structured abstracts for each study were completed and chronologically organized. A summary grid consolidated key aspects of the studies. From this, a synthesis of existing knowledge in the area was drawn and a methodology for the Canadian study evolved.
Results:
Discussion: Critical appraisal revealed several major areas of difference in the literature:
-- definition and measurement of outcome
-- sampling size and sample frame
-- retrospective-prospective data collection, data sources
This presentation will focus on the results of the systematic review of leg ulcer prevalence/incidence studies. It will also describe the Canadian prevalence study. In the end the Canadian survey combined the methods of British and Swedish studies for individuals with leg ulcers known to health care system (Callum and colleagues, 1985, 87; Nelzen at al. 1996). Advertisements in the local newspaper and all community papers (n=11) in the catchment area captured information on individuals treating themselves for the condition. Our prevalence study procedures included two phases. Individuals were first identified through an administrative screen using multiple health services databases, followed by validation with a clinical assessment. The process of systematic review for the purpose of design will allow for the comparison of the Canadian data with other North American and European studies.
Objectives: A systematic review of published epidemiology studies of leg ulcers was conducted to determine if there is a standard method and to assess the feasibility/applicability of these within the Canadian health care system.
Methods: A guideline for assessing incidence and prevalence studies and specific criteria for critical appraisal of study methods were used (Loney, Chambers, Bennett, Roberts & Stanford, 1998). The approach involved a defined retrieval, searching and critical appraisal methodology for the observational studies. Research published in the past 25 years was sought. Studies prior to this period would have limited relevance given the substantive changes in populations and health services delivery over this time. Using a data extraction form, structured abstracts for each study were completed and chronologically organized. A summary grid consolidated key aspects of the studies. From this, a synthesis of existing knowledge in the area was drawn and a methodology for the Canadian study evolved.
Results:
Discussion: Critical appraisal revealed several major areas of difference in the literature:
-- definition and measurement of outcome
-- sampling size and sample frame
-- retrospective-prospective data collection, data sources
This presentation will focus on the results of the systematic review of leg ulcer prevalence/incidence studies. It will also describe the Canadian prevalence study. In the end the Canadian survey combined the methods of British and Swedish studies for individuals with leg ulcers known to health care system (Callum and colleagues, 1985, 87; Nelzen at al. 1996). Advertisements in the local newspaper and all community papers (n=11) in the catchment area captured information on individuals treating themselves for the condition. Our prevalence study procedures included two phases. Individuals were first identified through an administrative screen using multiple health services databases, followed by validation with a clinical assessment. The process of systematic review for the purpose of design will allow for the comparison of the Canadian data with other North American and European studies.