Analysis of the Fluid Handling of Foam Dressings using a Porcine Simulated Wound Model In-Vitro

AIM: To observe the behaviour of a range of foam wound dressings on a porcine simulated wound model.

METHOD: A circular section of skin and subcutaneous fat was removed from pork loin to create a wound. A foam wound dressing was then applied centrally over the wound. Solution A (142mmol sodium ions, 2.5mmol calcium ions) was fed through a tube in the wound bed at a rate modelling that of a moderately exuding wound (0.71ml/hour¹). The dressing was left on the wound model for 72 hours, after which the fluid pump was stopped, and the dressing left for a final 24 hours. At the end of the experiment, the dressing was assessed for fluid uptake ability, signs of fluid leakage, and the wound bed assessed for signs of fluid pooling or excessive dryness.

RESULTS: Dressings A and C showed signs of fluid leakage from the dressing borders. Dressings A and B released fluid back into the wound on removal from the wound model. Dressing B showed pooling of fluid in the wound bed. Dressing D handled the delivered fluid over the 96 hour test period with no leakage, release of fluid into the wound bed on removal or pooling of fluid in the wound bed.

CONCLUSION: The simulated wound model was successfully used to determine the fluid handling properties of foam dressings. The fluid handling properties of the dressings varied greatly, with only Dressing D able to handle the delivered fluid over the 96 hour test period.