(CS-157) Working against gravity in VLU exudate management: evaluation of a novel silicone foam dressing

frank Aviles, PT, CWS, CLT-LANA – Director of Lymphatic and Wound Healing Services, Hyperbaric Physicians of Georgia

Introduction:

Clinicians often face those complex wounds that have moved in a reasonable trajectory only to stall when needing epithelial migration, indicating a need for improved wound bed preparation. In addition to wound management through debridement, wound hygiene, and compression, venous leg ulcers (VLUs) frequently have high levels of exudate that must be addressed.¹ High fluid handling capacity in the selected dressing can minimize risk of leakage and improve quality of life², however lower leg wound location often results in downward leakage which substantially increases maceration risk.

Methods:

The authors had shared experiences with a new silicone-based non-bordered foam dressing ³ with a patented dimpled surface that has the capability of spreading fluids evenly in all directions, even against the effects of gravity. The dressing provides excellent fluid handling needed to allow improved wear time even under compression thus minimizing risk of leakage and maceration.

Results:

The dressing, used under compression, was able to prevent leakage in each VLU case with no maceration observed. An interesting observation was the dimpled patterning noted on the wound bed and consistent improvement of the wound surface; with epithelization noted at the edges within 1-2 dressing changes.

Discussion:

The difference seems to be in the dimpling and resulting “footprint” created by the dressing. The reason for improvement remains elusive. As the dressing was designed for exudate management the improvement may be as simple as that, however we speculate that other interactions could be involved.

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