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Chronic wound fluid contains substances detrimental to cell proliferation. These substances slow or even block the proliferation of cells, including keratinocytes, the predominant cells in the epidermis, and endothelial cells.1 Fibroblast proliferation may also be inhibited, which may inhibit the synthesis of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and collagen reconstruction.2 Therefore, prolonged wound bed and periwound exposure to exudate leads to the breakdown of ECM proteins and growth factors as well as the inhibition of cell proliferation.3,4 An ideal wound dressing can remove copious amounts of wound exudate while maintaining an optimal moist wound healing environment.5 Additionally, proper exudate management will prevent periwound maceration, which has been correlated with continued chronic wound behavior. A new silicone faced bordered foam dressing with a superabsorbent core aids in locking in the wound exudate and the management of moderately to heavily exudating wounds. The superabsorbent component in this multilayer dressing is meant to retain fluids under compression. The purpose of this case series was to evaluate this new silicone faced bordered foam dressing with a superabsorbent core in the management of moderately to heavily exudating wounds.
In this case series, a convenience sample of 20 patients with wounds ranging from moderate to heavy drainage was chosen, at clinician discretion. The wound were located on various areas of the body. Standard dressing protocols are followed. A visual assessment of the wound and periwound areas was completed routinely.
The new silicone faced bordered foam dressing with a superabsorbent core was very absorbent. It remained securely in place while still having a gentle removal. The outer layer is nice and smooth to minimize friction. No maceration of the periwound was seen. Overall, the dressing effectively managed the wounds and was deemed a better product than the currently stocked foam dressing.