Safety and Efficacy of Negative Pressure Therapy in Acute Infected Wounds
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) is a globally widespread wound care method. It involves creating a local negative pressure in the wound, with key benefits including moist wound healing in a closed environment, gradual reduction of wound volume by drawing in the edges, continuous drainage of exudate and tissue fluid, and promotion of granulation.
According to a Finnish retrospective study involving 169 opioid-dependent individuals, substitution treatment reduces criminal activity (the total number of convictions, convictions for drug abuse, and property crimes). Along with a reduction in the use of illegal opioids and the risk of HIV and other bloodborne infections, this appears to be another benefit of substitution therapy.
This observational study specifically focused on the impact of substitution treatment on criminal activity among patients. It included all patients who entered the substitution treatment program for opioid addiction withdrawal at the Helsinki Central University Hospital between 2000 and 2005. The program also included psychiatric and psychosocial support. Patients were monitored for 18 months, and data on criminal activity were obtained from the conviction registry for a period of 3 years before and after the initiation of treatment.
A significant reduction in the number of criminal offenses during substitution treatment was found. Results were similar for the total number of convictions, convictions for drug abuse, and property crimes. The number of violent crimes and driving under the influence was too low and no decrease was observed during treatment. The best outcomes were achieved by patients who were also amphetamine-dependent. Gender, age, other addictions, psychiatric illness, and treatment discontinuation had minimal impact on the results.
This study demonstrated a reduction in criminal activity among opioid-dependent individuals undergoing substitution treatment, presenting another benefit of this addiction treatment method.
(zza)
Source: Vorma H., Sokero P., Aaltonen M., et al. Participation in opioid substitution treatment reduces the rate of criminal convictions: Evidence from a community study. Addict Behav. 2013 Jul; 38 (7): 2313–6. doi: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2013.03.009. Epub 2013 Mar 22.
Did you like this article? Would you like to comment on it? Write to us. We are interested in your opinion. We will not publish it, but we will gladly answer you.