The current status of maggot therapy in wound healing.

The clinical use of sterile maggots under the brand name LarveE has increased steadily in the UK since they were introduced in the UK in late 1995. Some 50 articles have been published in the last 4 years that describe the cost-effectiveness of maggot therapy in a variety of wound types including leg ulcers, pressure ulcers and diabetic ulcers. The ability of these creatures to combat wound infection has been well documented including those caused by antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. No significant risks or adverse events have been linked to the use of maggots, although their presence may increase pain levels in leg ulcers associated with ischaemic disease.