As per statistics, the US wound care market size, recorded at USD 14.61 billion in 2023, is expected to expand up to 24.05 billion by 2032. This ever-increasing number depicts the importance of wound care products including dressings and bandages, etc. Among these, a hydrocolloid dressing is one of the reliable wound care options as these effectively cover the wound surface.
Once applied, these tend to absorb warmth from the skin and soften to form an adhesive gel. However, despite their several advantages, hydrocolloid dressings are not suitable for every wound. Let us check the guide regarding the wound types for which hydrocolloid dressings can be used.
Hydrocolloid Dressings: Hydrogel-Based Consumables
Hydrocolloid dressings are one of the widely used hydrogel-based consumables in wound care. These come in sterile packaging which is torn at the time of use and are considered ideal for wounds with mild exudates. As these hydrocolloid dressings are water-resistant, they restrict the evaporation of moisture from the wounded area thus preventing the wound from getting dried. As a result, wound healing is promoted.
Types of Hydrocolloid Dressings
Hydrocolloid dressings can be loosely differentiated based on the following:
Based on Shape and Size
Hydrocolloid dressings come in different shapes and sizes and are often referred to as wafers or sheets. In addition, their granules, gels, powder, or paste can be used to fill deeper wounds.
Based on Occlusion
Moreover, these can also be classified as occlusive, semi-occlusive, or non-occlusive in nature which means some of the hydrocolloid dressings are permeable to water and microbes while others are partially or completely impermeable.
Composition of Hydrocolloid Dressings
Major chemical constituents of hydrocolloid dressings include gelatin, pectin, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and polysaccharides. These dressings have a water-proof backing which is constructed using polyurethane.
Some of these have adhesive borders which increase their adherence especially when used in difficult-to-dress areas such as heels, elbows, etc. Unlike other dressings, the hydrocolloid dressings strongly adhere to the skin thus eliminating the need to frequently change them. Usually, one hydrocolloid dressing can last up to 3 to 7 days.
Applications of Hydrocolloid Dressings in Wound Healing
Different kinds of hydrocolloid dressings are used in the following conditions for promoting rapid wound healing:
● Minor burns, cuts, and scratches
● Blisters
● Abrasions
● Skin tears
● Laceration
● Necrotic wounds
● Uninfected wounds
● Wounds with mild to moderate exudate
● Venous compression
● Venous leg ulcers
● Pressure ulcers/Bed sores
● Cystic acne
● Post-operative wounds
● Donor sites
● Diabetic foot ulcers
Hydrocolloid Dressings and Diabetic Foot Wounds
Hydrocolloid dressings can be used on diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) only if the wound is superficial as these dressings are not suitable for deeper wounds in diabetics. Moreover, wounds should be free from infection as well as ischemic damage.
Choosing the Right Hydrocolloid Dressing
Hydrocolloid dressings are generally considered suitable for a wide range of medical conditions. However, these dressings are the product of choice in two conditions i.e. for management of wounds with exudates and the treatment of pressure sores.
By modifying the basic design and composition of the standard hydrocolloid dressings, their newer versions have been introduced which have somewhat different uses. Some of these have been detailed below:
● Hydrofiber Dressings
Hydrofiber dressings have a similar composition to that of hydrocolloid dressings but are capable of absorbing wound exudate more effectively. It can swell up to 25 folds of its original size while remaining intact and adhered to the skin.
● Hydrocolloid Foam Dressings
Hydrocolloid foam dressings are considered ideal for patients who experience incontinence. Moreover, this dressing material also provides protection to the skin near the appendix from getting infected. Hydrocolloid foam dressings can also be used in ulcerative conditions, especially for lower extremity ulcers. These are more comfortable to use as their thickness cushions the wounds and thus increases patient comfort.
● Alginate Hydrocolloid Dressings
Alginate hydrocolloid dressings are opaque dressing materials. These have been impregnated with moisture-reactive particles. These are particularly useful for stage I and II pressure ulcers, burns, grazes, scratches, wounds, and cuts, as well as venous leg ulcers along with partial thickness burns. However, these alginate hydrocolloid dressings are not suitable for wounds with severe infections.
● Hydrocolloid Pads
Hydrocolloid pads are the products of choice for abrasions, post-operative stitched sites, pressure sores, as well as donor sites. These are also ideal for burn wounds. However, the use of hydrocolloid pads on 3rd-degree burns should be avoided.
● Hydrocolloid Adhesives
Hydrocolloid adhesives are sticky in their texture and do not slip away from their place until removed. These are ideal for wounds with partial thickness as well as diabetic foot ulcers.
● Hydrocolloid Sheets
Hydrocolloid sheets are primarily effective in the treatment of non-infected wounds. Moreover, these can also be used to provide coverage for minor burns and pressure ulcers. Their flexibility renders them ideal for hard-to-dress areas such as knees, elbows, as well as heels.
● Sacral Hydrocolloid Dressings
Sacral hydrocolloid dressings are known to protect the area around the tailbone which is constantly subjected to pressure while sitting. It has been designed to have a suitable shape for the intended area and thus it fits perfectly on the sacrum region. As a result, patients feel comfortable with their use as the pressure on the bone is somewhat lifted.
● Transparent Hydrocolloid Dressings
Transparent hydrocolloid dressings are preferred for areas that need to be inspected frequently. As the other types of hydrocolloid dressings are either translucent or completely opaque, the transparent options enable the healthcare providers to see the recovery while maintaining the dressing in its place.
● Silver Hydrocolloid Dressings
With the incorporation of silver sulfadiazine, the silver hydrocolloid dressings become even better than the standard hydrocolloid wound care products. These occlusive options promote rapid wound healing. In addition, these items manage the pain more effectively and do not require frequent changes.
Summarizing the above-mentioned uses, the following table presents a comprehensive review of the types of hydrocolloid dressings as well as the wound types they are suitable for:
| Types of Hydrocolloid Dressings | Suitability for Wound Types |
| Hydrofiber Dressings | Wounds with heavy exudate |
| Alginate Hydrocolloid Dressings | Stage I and II pressure ulcers, burns, grazes, scratches, wounds, cuts, venous leg ulcers |
| Hydrocolloid Pads | Abrasions, post-operative stitched sites, pressure sores, donor sites |
| Hydrocolloid Adhesives | Wounds with partial thickness, diabetic foot ulcers |
| Hydrocolloid Sheets | Wounds on hard-to-dress areas such as knees, elbows, as well as heels |
| Hydrocolloid Foam Dressings | Lower extremity ulcers |
| Sacral Hydrocolloid Dressings | Pressure ulcers on the sacrum region |
| Transparent Hydrocolloid Dressings | Wound sites where frequent inspection is required |
| Silver Hydrocolloid Dressings | Painful wounds that require rapid healing |
Advantages of Hydrocolloid Dressings
The hydrocolloid dressings provide the following advantages:
● These dressings come in different shapes and sizes which increase their suitability for many kinds of wounds.
● Hydrocolloid wound dressings can be cut and reshaped depending on the patient’s needs.
● As these dressings last longer, their changing frequency is less which saves time and money.
● By restricting the evaporation of water, hydrocolloid dressings keep the wound moist thus decreasing the overall healing time.
● These dressings do not get stuck on the wound bed. Therefore, they do not cause pain while being peeled off. This feature makes the hydrocolloid dressings suitable for pediatric patients.
Disadvantages of Hydrocolloid Dressings
Hydrocolloid wound dressings also have some demerits which include the following:
● As hydrocolloid dressings are not transparent, the wounded area can be visualized without removing the dressing. However, their translucent nature allows a rough estimation of the healing process.
● Hydrocolloid dressings are not suitable for infected wounds as well as for those with heavy exudate.
● In some cases, hydrocolloid dressings can reach their absorption capacity resulting in the leakage of wound exudate, a condition termed as ‘strike-through’.
● Hydrocolloid bandages are prone to getting curled or rolled on the edges thus leading to shape dysfunction.
● If the dressing sticks to the wound surface, its removal becomes difficult causing pain to the fragile skin.
● Skin irritation can be experienced due to hydrocolloid dressings.
● Hydrocolloid dressings may result in a bad odor at the time of removal.
Hydrocolloid Wound Dressings: Brands and Specifications
Multiple kinds of hydrocolloid dressings are available in the US markets. Despite being constructed with more or less similar material, these dressings vary in their utilization. Therefore, a suitable dressing has to be chosen from the following options:
DuoDerm CGF Hydrocolloid Dressing
187658CGF hydrocolloid dressing by DuoDerm by Convatec is a sterile product that can be applied to different kinds of acute wounds. This dressing comes in beige and 4 x 4 dimensions with a square or rectangular shape. The DuoDerm CGF dressings are suitable for partial to full-thickness wounds with exudate. Their moisture-retention ability makes them ideal for use on ulcers, donor sites, and superficial wounds.
Convatec DuoDerm Extra Thin Hydrocolloid Dressing
DuoDerm 187900 extra thin hydrocolloid dressings by Convatec is a sterile dressing that has a strong adherence to the skin. In addition to the above-mentioned features, the dressing is water-proof, flexible, and effectively creates a moist wound environment. As a result, the affected area remains free from irritation and the wounds heal quickly. Moreover, these dressings also effectively manage wound exudate.
Coloplast Comfeel Plus Hydrocolloid Dressing
Coloplast 33110 Comfeel Plus hydrocolloid dressing which is constructed using sodium carboxymethyl cellulose. It is square or rectangular and comes in tan and blue color. Based on its 4 inches length, the dressing is suitable for covering wider wounds. The product is sterile and comes in individualized packaging which is torn at the time of use.
Dermarite Hydrocolloid Dressing DermaFilm
Dermarite 00219E hydrocolloid dressing DermaFilms are thin and transparent sterile films that are latex-free. These are suitability for wounds with low exudates. Their flexibility renders them comfortable for the patients to wear for longer. Dermarite DermaFilms are suitable for burns, deep wounds with infections, and wounds with exposed tendons or bones.
HealQu Hydrocolloid Dressing Border
HealQu 9020801 hydrocolloid dressing border is an absorbent product that is highly effective. It is made with non-irritant material which enhances user comfort. HealQu hydrocolloid dressings are effective in preventing wound exudate thus generating a moist healing environment. Moreover, the product is latex-free and does not cause skin irritation.
Dynarex DynaDerm Hydrocolloid Wound Dressings
Dynarex DynaDerm hydrocolloid dressing has an extra-thin texture for increased patient comfort. As the product is sterile, it can also help in the prevention of possible wound infections. It is 6″ x 6″ in size and is suitable for areas that have fragile skin. Moreover, the Dynarex DynaDerm hydrocolloid dressings also enhance autolytic debridement thus subsequently promoting wound healing.
Gentell GEN-10200 Dermatell Hydrocolloid Dressing
Gentell GEN-10200 Dermatell hydrocolloid dressing is a sterile wound dressing. It is a waterproof and latex-free product that effectively creates a moist environment. The product also has high adhesive strength and can be applied on difficult-to-dress areas. Each of the Gentell hydrocolloid dressings comes in individualized packaging to ensure sterility. Overall, the product is suitable for different kinds of medical conditions including burn wounds. These can also effectively absorb wound fluid.
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Conclusion
Depending upon the wound type, a healthcare provider chooses a suitable dressing material from the wide range of available wound care options. Among these, hydrocolloid dressings are often preferred due to their strong wound adherence, efficient exudate absorption, as well as cost-effectiveness.
As the wound type change, the suitability of the dressing is also shifted from one product to another which has been summarized in this article with an aim to provide guidance to the users. Purchasing medical devices from reliable vendors like Health Supply 770 ensures the provision of quality products along with satisfactory services.
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PhD Scholar (Pharmaceutics), MPhil (Pharmaceutics), Pharm D, B. Sc.
Uzma Zafar is a dedicated and highly motivated pharmaceutical professional currently pursuing her PhD in Pharmaceutics at the Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab. With a comprehensive academic and research background, Uzma has consistently excelled in her studies, securing first division throughout her educational journey.
Uzma’s passion for the pharmaceutical field is evident from her active engagement during her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) program, where she not only mastered industrial techniques and clinical case studies but also delved into marketing strategies and management skills.
