Pressure ulcers represent a major current health problem and cause an important
economic impact on the healthcare system. Most studies on the prevention of
pressure ulcers have been carried out in hospital contexts, with respect to the use
of hyperoxygenated fatty acids (HOFA), and to date no studies have specifically
examined the use of olive oil-based treatments. Aim: To evaluate the cost of
using extra virgin olive oil, rather than HOFA, in the prevention of pressure
ulcers among persons with impaired mobility and receiving home care. Study
Design: Cost minimization analysis of the results obtained from a noninferiority,
triple-blind, parallel, multicenter, randomized clinical trial. Population attending
primary healthcare centers in Andalusia (Spain). Study sample: 831 immobilized
patients at risk of suffering pressure ulcers. These persons were included in the
study and randomly assigned as follows: 437 to the olive oil group and 394 to
the HOFA group. At the end of the follow-up period, the results obtained by the
olive oil group were not inferior to those of the HOFA group, and did not
exceed the 10% delta limit. The total treatment cost for 16 weeks was e19,758
with HOFAs and e9,566 with olive oil. Overall, the olive oil treatment was
e10,192 less costly. It has been concluded the noninferiority of olive oil makes
this product an effective alternative for the prevention of pressure ulcers in
patients who are immobilized and in a domestic environment. This treatment
enables considerable savings in direct costs.
