====== Wound dressing ======


A [[dressing]] is a [[sterile]] pad or compress applied to a [[wound]] to promote healing and/or prevent further [[harm]]. A dressing is designed to be in direct contact with the wound, as distinguished from a [[bandage]], which is most often used to hold a dressing in place. Some organizations classify them as the same thing (for example, the British Pharmacopoeia) and the terms are used interchangeably by some people. Dressings are frequently used in first aid and nursing.

====== Wound Dressing Classification ======

Wound dressings can be classified based on their function, composition, and clinical indication.

===== I. By Function =====

==== 1. Passive Dressings ====
  * Function: Protect and cover the wound.
  * Examples: Gauze, tulle gras.
  * Indication: Superficial wounds with minimal exudate.

==== 2. Interactive Dressings ====
  * Function: Maintain moist wound environment, promote healing.
  * Examples:
    * Hydrocolloids (e.g., Duoderm)
    * Hydrogels (e.g., Intrasite)
    * Alginates (e.g., Kaltostat)
    * Foams (e.g., Mepilex)
  * Indication: Moderate to heavily exuding wounds, pressure ulcers, diabetic ulcers.

==== 3. Bioactive Dressings ====
  * Function: Deliver therapeutic agents (antimicrobial, growth factors).
  * Examples:
    * Collagen-based
    * Silver or iodine dressings
    * Tissue-engineered skin substitutes

===== II. By Material / Composition =====

^ Type ^ Description ^ Examples ^
| **Gauze**        | Cotton-based, absorbent | Sterile gauze |
| **Hydrocolloid** | Gel-forming agents with adhesive backing | Duoderm, Comfeel |
| **Hydrogel**     | High water content; cooling and soothing | Intrasite, Aquagel |
| **Foam**         | Polyurethane, absorbent and cushioning | Allevyn, Mepilex |
| **Alginate**     | Seaweed-derived; forms gel on contact with exudate | Kaltostat, Algisite |
| **Silicone**     | Non-adherent, gentle on skin | Mepitel, Biatain Silicone |
| **Film**         | Transparent, semi-permeable | Tegaderm, Opsite |
| **Antimicrobial**| Impregnated with silver, iodine, or PHMB | Acticoat, Iodoflex |
| **Collagen**     | Promotes tissue regeneration | Promogran, Fibracol |

===== III. By Clinical Indication =====

  * **Dry wounds** → Hydrogel (adds moisture)
  * **Moderate/heavy exudate** → Foam, alginate
  * **Infected wounds** → Silver or iodine dressings
  * **Necrotic wounds** → Hydrogel (autolytic debridement)
  * **Postoperative wounds** → Film, hydrocolloid
  * **Burns or fragile skin** → Silicone mesh, hydrogel




===== Examples =====
[[Leukomed]].

[[Tegaderm]].

[[Film dressing]]