Debriding Wounds in Acute Care Using a Unique Hydropolymer Absorbant Dressing

Introduction: The goal of this case series was to find an alternative product to enzymatic debridement for use in the inpatient hospital setting that the WOC and staff nurses would be able to provide that would debride necrotic tissue as well as control bioburden, facilitate wound healing, and decrease the number of dressing changes. The intent was also to find a dressing that could easily transition to other care settings upon discharge.  

Method:  The dressing used in this case series is a unique hydropolymer gel bordered dressing. The hydropolymer gel is absorbent and has a sodium content that facilitates autolytic debridement through osmosis and stimulation of wound perfusion. The wound contact layer is coated with a fatty acid derivative (dialkylcarbamoyl chloride) that irreversibly binds with bacteria, renders them inert and unable to replicate through a physical mode of action called hydrophobic interaction. Wounds in this case series included ten necrotic venous leg ulcers, pressure injuries, device related pressure injuries and traumatic wounds.

Results: All wounds were quickly and effectively debrided within 1-2 weeks with dressing changes per the WOC or the staff nurse every 3 to 4 days. There was noticeable decrease in necrotic tissue and an improvement in the wound bed after the first dressing change in each wound. Signs of inflammation and local wound infection improved with the first dressing changes in each wound.

Conclusion: Necrotic wounds were debrided with less dressing changes and as effectively as an enzymatic debridement ointment. There were improved wound healing outcomes from the effective debridement and bioburden control. The WOC and staff nurses stated the dressings were easy to use and the product was easily transitioned to other care setting upon discharge.