1.   What are hydrocolloid dressings?

Hydrocolloids are a type of dressing containing gel-forming agents, such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose (NaCMC) and gelatin. In many products, these are combined with elastomers and adhesives and applied to a carrier - usually polyurethane foam or film, to form an absorbent, self adhesive, waterproof wafer.

In the presence of wound exudate, hydrocolloids absorb liquid and form a gel, the properties of which are determined by the nature of the formulation. Some dressings form a cohesive gel, which is largely contained within the adhesive matrix; others form more mobile, less viscous gels which are not retained within the dressing structure.

In the intact state most hydrocolloids are impermeable to water vapour, but as the gelling process takes place, the dressing becomes progressively more permeable. The loss of water through the dressing in this way enhances the ability of the product to cope with exudate production [1].

One feature of hydrocolloids that is appreciated by clinicians is wet tack; unlike most dressings, they can adhere to a moist site as well as a dry one.

Reference 1: Thomas S., Loveless, P. A comparative study of the properties of twelve hydrocolloid dressings. World Wide Wounds, July 1997; [Full Text: /1997/july/Thomas-Hydronet/hydronet.html]

2.   Hydrocolloid Wound Dressing Benefits

·Self-adherent

·Does not adhere to moist wound base

·Impermeable to gases, bacteria, water vapour, water, and many other external contaminants

·Provides moist wound environment that promotes new tissue formation

·Minimal disruption to healing

·Waterproof property lets users take shower with it

·Easy to apply to wound surface

·Quick exudate absorption

·Reduces pain

·May be used with venous compression products

·Can be worn for several days without being changed

3.   what is a Hydrocolloid Dressing used for?

Hydrocolloid dressing is used to treat different types of wounds. Best results are seen when the wound is uninfected:

·       Partial or full thickness wounds

·       Granular and necrotic wounds

·       Low to moderate drainage wounds

·       Surgical incisions

·       Pressure injuries

·       Leg ulcers

4.   Are there any side effects of hydrocolloid dressings?

Contact dermatitis

Hydrocolloid wound dressings have been in use for some 20 years, and have rarely been associated with allergic contact dermatitis. However, some hydrocolloid dressings contain the pentaerythritol ester of hydrogenated rosin as a tackifying agent, and this substance retains the sensitizing potential of colophony.

Reference: Sasseville D, Tennstedt D, Lachapelle JM: Allergic contact dermatitis from hydrocolloid dressings. Am J Contact Dermat 1997 Dec;8(4):236-238

5.   How much fluid can hydrocolloid dressings absorb?

The ability of hydrocolloids to absorb fluids varies considerably over time, and between products. Laboratory studies [1] suggest that the dressings may not be suitable for medium to high exuding wounds. Other research [2] suggested that when properly applied, the dressings might reduce the amount of exudate.

Reference 1: Thomas S., Loveless, P. A comparative study of the properties of twelve hydrocolloid dressings. World Wide Wounds, July 1997; [Full Text: /1997/july/Thomas-Hydronet/hydronet.html]

Reference 2: Thomas S., Fear M., Humphreys J., Disley L., Waring MJ. The effect of dressings on the production of exudate from venous leg ulcers. WOUNDS 1996;8(5):145-150