A small study in healing rates and symptom control using a new sheet hydrogel dressing.

OBJECTIVE

This study set out to investigate the pain control and absorptive properties of a new sheet hydrogel dressing (ActiFormCool, Activa).

METHOD

This was a simple evaluation involving 20 wounds. Compression was used when appropriate, although each patient receiving compression had used short-stretch bandages before entering the study.

RESULTS

Pain was reduced from an average of 8.65 to an average of 3.75, where 10 represents the worst pain possible and one represents no pain. Exudate reduction was assessed by the number of dressing changes required each week. The dressing-change rate reduced from an average of 2.8 times weekly to an average of 1.3 times weekly. Skin condition improved in all three cases in which the surrounding skin had been a problem before the study. Over a four-week period, two wounds healed, four healed by 90% and two by 80%, with an overall average healing rate of 46%.

CONCLUSION

ActiFormCool provides an optimum wound-healing environment, reduces pain and absorbs fluid, making it an excellent alternative to loose hydrogels.