Cold plasma treatment
Cold plasma: an additional treatment for hard-to-heal wounds
A wound that does not heal over a prolonged period can have a considerable impact on everyday life. At my Freiburg practice, we offer treatment with cold physical plasma. First, we assess why healing is delayed and whether this treatment could complement your existing care.
What is cold plasma?
Cold physical plasma is a partially ionised gas generated using electrical energy. It is applied locally. Reactive components are produced that can have antimicrobial effects and influence biological processes in the treated tissue. Cold plasma should not be confused with blood plasma or ACP and PRP treatments using your own blood.
What benefits may be possible for chronic wounds?
Clinical studies suggest improved healing in certain chronic wounds. For example, a greater reduction in wound area was observed in diabetic foot ulcers receiving additional cold plasma treatment. This does not mean every wound will heal faster or completely. The results apply to the devices and treatment protocols studied.
Treatment does not replace appropriate wound care or treatment of the underlying cause. This may include assessment of blood supply, pressure relief or treatment of infection. Cooperation with other specialties may be required.
What about joint and tendon symptoms?
Cold plasma has also been used at our practice for symptoms affecting small joints and tendons. However, clinical benefit for these applications is not sufficiently established. Clinical experience and wound-treatment results do not demonstrate effectiveness for osteoarthritis, arthritis or tendon disorders. We explicitly discuss this uncertainty and first consider established treatment options. Necessary rheumatological treatment or other treatment addressing the cause must not be delayed.
How we plan treatment
We assess the affected area, your existing findings and previous treatments. We then discuss the treatment goal, alternatives and proposed procedure. Duration and frequency depend on the findings and method used. We monitor progress regularly and decide together whether continuing is appropriate.
Tolerability and limitations
Treatment is often well tolerated. Nevertheless, it cannot be guaranteed to be entirely painless or free of side effects. We explain possible local reactions, limitations and protective measures in advance, based on the device and your circumstances. Please tell us about medical conditions, implants and medications.
Increasing redness, swelling, severe pain or fever requires prompt medical assessment. Do not wait until your next planned cold plasma appointment.
Costs and consultation
Before planned self-pay treatment, we inform you of the estimated costs. Fees are charged under the German Medical Fee Schedule (GOÄ). Insurance coverage is not guaranteed and should be checked with your insurer in advance.
Would you like to know whether cold plasma may be suitable for you? Book a consultation.
Scientific information
S2k guideline on the therapeutic use of cold physical plasma and randomised trial of adjunctive treatment for diabetic foot ulcers. Results in wound treatment do not establish effectiveness for joint or tendon symptoms.