A hydrocolloid wound dressing is an opaque wound covering that’s biodegradable, non breathable and adheres directly to the skin with no separate tape needed. The surface of the dressing is coated with a cross-linked adhesive mass that contains a dispersion of gelatin, pectin and carboxy-methycellulose together with other polymers and adhesives that form a flexible wafer. The gel that is formed as a result of the absorption of the wound exudate is not runny – it actually holds together within the structure of the adhesive matrix.
Hydrocolloid wound dressings are easy to use, requiring changing only every 3-5 days and are designed for easy, painless removal. This makes them useful for clean, granulating, superficial wounds with low to medium exudate. With dry wounds, a hydrocolloid wound dressing can have a softening effect, and have often been used to prevent the spread of infections, such as MRSA. These products are waterproof and generally impermeable to bacteria.
Different shapes and sizes of dressings are made for specific anatomical areas; for example, flat sheets can be cut and folded to recreate the appropriate body shape. Hydrocolloid wound dressings should be gently warmed between the hands to prevent adhesion and when possible, weight should be kept off the dressing for at least 20 minutes to allow it to adhere to the skin to maximize wear time.
Mountainside Medical Equipment is a proud supplier of several different varieties of hydrocolloid wound dressings. You can get them on our website, or call 1-888-687-4334 to speak with one of our excellent Medical Supply Specialists to place your order.