PURPOSE: The purpose of this poster is to assess the performance of calcium alginate/carboxymethlycellulose (CMC) with silver dressing* for the treatment of chronic wounds that are colonized or at high risk for infection.

OBJECTIVE: Due to the influx of multiple silver dressings on the market, it is essential to evaluate the performance characteristics of these products. The performance characteristics evaluated for the calcium alginate/CMC with silver dressing* were: absorption, wear time, ease of application and removal, and wound healing outcomes.

Calcium alginate/CMC with silver dressing* is a highly absorptive non- woven pad composed of calcium alginate, CMC and ionic silver. The ionic silver component releases Silver ions in the presence of wound exudate over a period of up to 4 days.

OUTCOMES: Results indicated the performance characteristics that were evaluated exceeded our criteria. The calcium alginate/CMC with silver dressing* is an effective bacterial barrier, highly absorptive and easy to apply and remove. Wear time ranged from 1 – 4 days dependent on wound type and amount of exudate. Excellent wound healing outcomes were achieved. The positive results assure us that we should continue to use the calcium alginate/CMC with silver dressing* in our facility.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE/DISCLOSURE: Poster is sponsored and funded by Medline Industries, Inc.

REFERENCES: 1. Baranoski S and Ayello EA Wound Care Essentials: Practice Principles. Baranoski, S and Ayello EA, Lippincott, 2003. 2. Ovington L. “Bacterial toxins and wound healing” Ostomy Wound Management, 2003; 49 (7A Suppl): 8-12.

* Maxorb Extra Ag, Medline Industries, Inc. Mundelein, Illinois.