Granulox for managing chronic non-healing wounds

The technology described in this briefing is Granulox. Granulox is a topical sterile haemoglobin spray for managing chronic non-healing wounds.

The innovative aspects are that, unlike other oxygen delivery technologies, it is designed to allow oxygen to diffuse through wound exudate. It can also be used in various settings without costly consumables, electrical power or full or partial body coverage in a chamber.

The intended place in therapy would be alongside standard care for people with chronic non-healing wounds.

The main points from the evidence summarised in this briefing are from 8 studies (1 meta-analysis, 2 randomised controlled trials and 5 observational studies) including a total of 530 people. Seven studies were based in the UK and are generalisable to the NHS. The evidence suggests that Granulox may improve the management of chronic non-healing wounds.

Key uncertainties around the evidence are that sample sizes are small, and most studies were not randomised and had a short follow-up period.

Experts advised that Granulox could improve wound healing outcomes by increasing oxygenation of the wound bed. However, 1 expert felt that there is insufficient evidence to determine if Granulox could impact wound healing. Larger scale, controlled, comparative studies are needed to support the efficacy of the technology and provide cost-effectiveness data.

The cost of Granulox is £125 per canister (excluding VAT) for up to 30 applications, depending on the size of the wound. The cost of standard care varies depending on the wound, the extent of the intervention and the costs of the local provider.