Use of a Superabsorbent Dressing to Reduce Outpatient Multilayer Compression Costs without Affecting Clinical Outcomes

Clinical Problem: Use of multilayer compression wraps (MLCW) with foam primary dressings for the management of highly exudating venous hypertension and ulcerations (VLUs) are widely used in clinical practice as is the use of foam to control exudate in these clinically complex patients.^1,2 Foam, while absorbent, can be easily overwhelmed with exudate, requiring multiple changes every week impacting direct and indirect costs.

Treatment Approach: A superabsorbent silicone-based dressing*(SSBD) was applied directly to the VLUs of 10 patients with or without non-absorptive base antimicrobial agent layer coupled with application of a short-stretch bandage (SSB) to achieve compression comparable to MLCW for the duration of treatment. Cost analysis, application time comparison, ease of use for nursing staff, pain and clinical outcomes were evaluated.

Outcome: There was no difference in clinical outcomes in the MLCW group as compared to the SSBD group. Total costs were reduced due to decreased dressing change frequency and ability to re-use SSBs as strike-through drainage was well controlled with the SSBD. For patients with heavy drainage, the added benefit of daily reimbursement for SSBD dressings with the Surgical Dressing Policy was advantageous. Patients reported less pain. Staff reported increased ease of use and less application time.

Conclusion: Clinically acceptable opportunities for cost savings, especially in a value-based purchasing healthcare system can still be achieved without sacrificing clinical outcomes using a superabsorbent dressing. Further studies are warranted.

*Eclypse Adherent, Ecylpse Border Oval Absorbent Dressing, Advancis Medical, Nottinghamshire, UK

**Rosidal K, Lohmann & Rauscher USA, Inc., Milwaukee, Wisconsin