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Statement of the Problem
Split-thickness skin grafts are frequently performed surgical procedures, but consensus does not exist regarding optimal care for donor sites after grafting procedures. The overall efficacy of dressings is usually based on healing, associated pain and cost.
Methodology
This was an open-label, non-randomized, uncontrolled product evaluation of non-adherent foam dressings with and without silver at 3US sites. Eligible subjects who underwent split-thickness skin grafts had either foam dressing developed using hydrocolloid particle technology with a petroleum base in a non-occlusive and non-adherent mesh with or without silver applied to the donor site in the operating room, and covered with either a transparent film or tape. Patients were followed during regularly scheduled visits. Specific questions were asked regarding the clinicians’ perception on the performance characteristics of the foam dressings on split-thickness skin graft donor sites. Patients were asked their perception of pain before, between, and after dressing changes using a 0-10 point visual analog scale. Patients were followed until the use of the dressing was no longer appropriate, until healed, or up to 4 weeks.
Results
Approximately 45 donor sites were included in this product evaluation. Descriptive statistics of clinician perception of the ease of application, adherence to wound, and patient pain during removal of the foam dressings were assessed. In addition, there was a discussion of the overall clinical assessment of donor site wound healing.
Conclusion
These non-adherent foam dressings were easily applied and removed with minimal to no adhesion to the donor sites. Patients’ perceptions of pain during dressing changes were minimal to nonexistent. This product evaluation suggests that the non-adherence of the foam dressings may promote the wound healing process and reduce patient pain which is experienced during dressing changes of donor sites. These benefits have the potential to improve patient’s quality of life.
Split-thickness skin grafts are frequently performed surgical procedures, but consensus does not exist regarding optimal care for donor sites after grafting procedures. The overall efficacy of dressings is usually based on healing, associated pain and cost.
Methodology
This was an open-label, non-randomized, uncontrolled product evaluation of non-adherent foam dressings with and without silver at 3
Results
Approximately 45 donor sites were included in this product evaluation. Descriptive statistics of clinician perception of the ease of application, adherence to wound, and patient pain during removal of the foam dressings were assessed. In addition, there was a discussion of the overall clinical assessment of donor site wound healing.
Conclusion
These non-adherent foam dressings were easily applied and removed with minimal to no adhesion to the donor sites. Patients’ perceptions of pain during dressing changes were minimal to nonexistent. This product evaluation suggests that the non-adherence of the foam dressings may promote the wound healing process and reduce patient pain which is experienced during dressing changes of donor sites. These benefits have the potential to improve patient’s quality of life.