Undressing the choice of dressings

Br J Hosp Med (Lond). 2021 Nov 2;82(11):1-12. doi: 10.12968/hmed.2021.0226. Epub 2021 Nov 8.

Abstract

There is a vast number of wound dressings to choose from, which can make selecting the most suitable dressing for a wound a daunting prospect. This article highlights how the wound can guide the doctor's decision. Although all wound dressings are intended to achieve optimal wound healing and protection from contamination, they do so to varying degrees depending on the qualities of the dressing and the wound itself. This article looks at a range of dressings, from traditional to newer dressings, and evaluates their benefits and contraindications to help determine where they are best suited for use in wound management.

Keywords: Dressings; Non-adhesive; Occlusive; Semi-permeable; Wounds.

MeSH terms

  • Bandages*
  • Humans
  • Occlusive Dressings
  • Wound Healing*