Periwound maceration has been associated with slow healing of wounds. Management of maceration is frequently attempted with the use  of absorbent foams, alginates, and hydrogels. However, these dressings either lose integrity when saturated (alginates and hydrogels), allow exudate to be regressed back into the wound when compressed, or are unable to absorb well under compression. The latter has been observed with absorbent foam in particular. Super absorbent material containing dressings have been described as products that can: (a) absorb under pressure, and (b) resist “squeezing out” when used as a secondary dressing with typical pressure under a compression wrap (40 mm Hg). Our new wound center provides care for many patients that suffer from malodorous, highly exudative, macerated wounds which are managed with compression dressings as the standard of care. We tested a superabsorbent dressing to assess the impact on maceration and wound odor levels.     

 METHODS

A convenience plebolymphedema relatedexudate/ulcerations which caused problems of odor, periwound maceration and slow wound healing were evaluated. The patients were treated with the superabsorbent dressing consistently for 4-6 weeks, changing dressings during clinic visit 1-3 times a week. Evaluation end points included periwound maceration; wound healing; and evaluation of odor status of the wounds. The same compression bandage was used consistently on all the patients over the entire duration of care. Patients continued with their compression and lymphedema therapy and were encouraged to elevate and ambulate to facilitate venous return.