Evaluation of a multilayer antimicrobial foam dressing indicated for use on surgical incisions.

BACKGROUND

Many orthopedic procedures are performed every year in the United States on a population deemed low risk for surgical site infections (SSIs). To avoid wound complications, an appropriate dressing must be used that includes features such as conformability and antimicrobial properties.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate use of a multilayer antimicrobial surgical incision dressing in patients at low risk of SSI.

METHODS

Data were collected from 8 hospitals in the United States. All patients involved were at low risk of infection following the surgical procedure, and the dressings were used prophylactically. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire; respondents completed 1 survey per patient about product application, performance of dressing, and continued use.

RESULTS

Out of the 54 responses, 83% of surgeries (n = 45) were orthopedic procedures. The dressing was well received, with 91% of clinicians stating that the ease of application met, exceeded, or greatly exceeded their expectations. Seventy percent of respondents stated that the dressing's ability to conform to body contours exceeded or greatly exceeded their expectations, and 96% of clinicians stated they would like to continue using the dressing.

CONCLUSION

The dressing demonstrates excellent conformability and other required features of a postoperative dressing in a patient population at low risk of SSI.