The aim of our evaluation was to assess the product performance and patient acceptability of a new and improved range of absorbent polyurethane foam dressings* in a variety of foot and ankle post-surgical incisions. All patients were; >18 years of age, male or non-pregnant females that presented with a post-surgical incision that was suitable for application of the primary dressing. The dressings were assessed according to a number of product performance characteristics including exudate management, patient comfort, odor control, pain management and clinical infection.

 The results from 15 patients will be presented in the full poster, together main conclusions drawn. Our initial findings are that the dressings were easy to apply and remove, were well tolerated by the patients proving comfort and protection to the incision site. A noticeable reduction in post-operative edema was recorded together with a reduction in inflammation and improved incision closure rates.

 * ALLEVYN polyurethane foam dressings – Smith & Nephew Wound Management Inc, Largo, Fl.