Many reports in the literature describe local remedies for chronic ulcers of the leg. 1 In evaluating these and other medicaments, it has become increasingly evident that definite criteria should be applied before any medicament is considered useful as well as successful. The medicament must promote tissue growth and healing and should be nontoxic, have a low sensitizing index, relieve symptoms if any are present, be easy to apply, and be economically acceptable. A study of 106 patients with chronic recalcitrant ulcers of the leg was initiated in June, 1951, at the New York Skin and Cancer Unit after reports that absorbable gelatin sponge (Gelfoam) had a tissue-stimulating effect on the skin 2 and aided in the healing of deeper wounds. 3 Absorbable gelatin sponge, a heat-sterilized foam sponge made of animal gelatin, was introduced in 1945 as an absorbable hemostatic agent. 4 It has been found that antibiotics such