From the Research
Ultramist therapy is a non-contact, low-frequency ultrasound treatment used to promote wound healing, particularly useful for chronic wounds that have failed to respond to conventional treatments, including diabetic ulcers, pressure injuries, and venous stasis ulcers. It works by delivering a fine saline mist to the wound bed while simultaneously applying ultrasonic energy, typically at frequencies between 20-40 kHz. The treatment is administered using a specialized device that creates a mist of saline solution which serves as a medium for the ultrasonic waves to reach the wound surface. A typical treatment session lasts 3-5 minutes and is usually performed three times per week, though frequency may vary based on wound severity.
The therapy works through several mechanisms: it debrides the wound by removing dead tissue and biofilm, increases local blood flow to bring healing factors to the area, reduces inflammation, and stimulates cellular activity necessary for tissue repair. The ultrasonic waves create microscopic bubbles in the wound fluid that implode (cavitation), creating microstreaming effects that help clean the wound and stimulate cellular responses. According to a study published in 2008 1, limited evidence suggests that noncontact, low-hertz frequency ultrasonic mist therapy promotes wound healing when used in conjunction with standard wound therapy.
Some key points to consider when using ultramist therapy include:
- The treatment is generally painless and requires no direct contact with the wound, making it suitable for sensitive or painful wounds.
- Ultramist therapy has been used on wounds associated with neuropathy, limb ischemia, venous insufficiency, trauma, as well as poorly healing surgical wounds, with few adverse effects noted 1.
- A study published in 2013 2 characterized the ultrasound beam produced by the MIST therapy wound healing system, providing insight into the technical aspects of the treatment.
- Another study published in 2006 3 evaluated the clinical effectiveness of MIST ultrasound therapy for the healing of chronic wounds, finding that treatment with low-frequency, noncontact ultrasound achieved healing in 69% of cases.
Overall, ultramist therapy is a valuable treatment option for promoting wound healing, particularly in cases where conventional treatments have failed, and its use should be considered in the context of a comprehensive wound care plan.