Table 1 Advantages and disadvantages of wound dressings
Types of wound dressings | Advantages | Disadvantages | References |
|---|---|---|---|
Gauze / bandages | Cost-effective, biocompatible, easy to apply and remove, suitable for both superficial and deep wounds. Suitable for frequent dressing changes. Permeable to air hence prevents maceration and moisture evaporation | Not suitable for heavy exudating wounds | [14] |
Paraffin or Vaseline-Impregnated Gauze | These dressings maintain moisture, protect the wound from external contaminants, and are non-adherent, reducing pain and tissue damage. They facilitate secondary dressing applications and are ideal for superficial wounds like surgical incisions, burns, and skin tears | Not suitable for heavy exudate wounds, requires frequent changes, and lacks antimicrobial and debriding properties. Displays limited absorption hence require frequent changes, risk of maceration, and limited healing properties | [15] |
Transparent Films | Allow passage of water vapor and gases while blocking bacteria and liquids. Continuous visual monitoring possible due to transparent nature. Films are flexible, adaptable, non-adherent to the wound bed, and suitable for low-exudate wounds. Films offer friction protection, promoting healing in vulnerable areas | Limited absorption capacity hence not suitable for wounds with moderate to heavy exudate. Lacks absorption and drainage control, hence high risk of maceration, and infection. Improper removal can cause damage to the wound or surrounding skin | |
Hydrocolloids | Ideal for wounds with minimal to moderate exudate. They are generally composed of waterproof polyurethane film as outer layer hence protect wound from bacteria and debris | Not suitable for infected wounds, as it traps bacteria and delay healing process Not suitable for deep or highly exuding or wounds with necrotic tissue or those requiring debridement as it restricts oxygen flow | |
Hydrofibers | Useful for wounds with moderate to high exudate levels, such as burns, ulcers, and surgical wounds. Hydrofibers transform into a gel-like substance, absorb and retain fluid, promote a moist wound healing environment, prevent maceration, control infection, and are useful for controlled release medications via swelling and diffusion process | Not suitable for dry or necrotic wounds with minimal exudate, as their absorbent properties can aggravate dryness and hinder healing. Over-gelling can cause discomfort and frequent dressing changes | [14] |
Foams | Provide comfort and cushioning, especially in chronic wounds or pressure ulcers. The permeability of foam backing regulates gas exchange and water evaporation, maintaining an optimal moisture balance for wound healing while preventing maceration. They have a prolonged wear time, retaining exudate without need for frequent changes. The pores of polyurethane films facilitate drug release, hence suitable for diabetic foot ulcers, surgical wounds, pressure ulcers, and venous ulcers with moderate to high exudate | Not suitable for dry or low-exudate wounds due to their absorbent nature. Not ideal for active infections and may be bulky, making them less suitable for certain body parts or under clothing | |
Hydrogel Dressings | Hydrogels are non-adherent, composed of 80—99% water or glycerin, hence effective for dry and necrotic wounds. They reduce pain and discomfort. They also facilitate gas and water passages, preventing maceration | Not suitable for infected and heavy exudate wounds due to limited fluid absorption capacity and may cause maceration | [18] |
Collagen Dressings | Collagen dressings promote tissue regeneration, are bio-adaptive, maintain a moist wound environment, accelerate wound healing, and promote natural collagen production | Collagen dressings are expensive, may cause allergic reactions. May not be suitable for actively infected wounds unless combined with antimicrobial agents. They require a clean wound bed and may require secondary dressings for extra support | [14] |
Growth Factor containing Dressings | It promotes tissue repair and cell proliferation. Effective for chronic or complex wounds, particularly in burns, surgical wounds, and diabetic ulcers. They regulate key biological processes, increasing cell motility and promoting new tissue formation. They also reduce scar formation, improving aesthetic outcomes | Expensive, limited availability, and poses a risk of infection if not used with proper wound care. They require precise application and monitoring by healthcare professionals, adding complexity to wound management | [14] |
Antibacterial Ag/Honey-based dressings | Silver dressings effectively combat various microorganisms, including bacteria, yeast, and fungi, reducing wound infection risk. Act via multiple mechanisms to disrupt microbial respiration and prevents bacterial replication. Honey dressings are particularly beneficial for burns and superficial wounds Due to high osmolarity and hydrogen peroxide content honey dressings are effective against various pathogens | They are best for high-risk wounds and can be expensive, making them less accessible for long-term use. Honey-based dressings are not suitable for treating chronic venous ulcers. It may also cause allergic reactions in some patients |