Description
Smith & Nephew 66000519 - ALGISITE M CA- 5X 5CM
ALGISITE M Calcium Alginate Dressing, 5cm x 5cm, 1 Box/10 Dressings
ALGISITE M is a calcium-alginate dressing which forms a soft, integral gel when it comes into contact with wound exudate. Excess wound exudate is absorbed in this process. ALGISITE M utilises the proven benefits of moist wound healing, which results in faster healing of even difficult wounds.
Features & Benefits
- Fast gelling, high mannuronic acid fibres
- Low fibre shed construction
- High integrity when wet
- Soft and conformable
Easy to remove
When used in a moderate to highly exuding wound, the dressing forms a soft gel, which does not adhere to the delicate healing tissues in the wound bed. The dressing can be easily lifted out of the wound in one piece, or washed out with saline.
Conforms to wound contours
ALGISITE M is very soft and conformable, allowing it to be moulded, folded or cut to meet a wide range of wound shapes and sizes. As the fibres gel, an even more intimate contact with the wound is produced and maintained.
Less fibre shed
All fibre based alginates release fibres when handled, however the advanced bonding technique employed in ALGISITE M greatly reduces this.
Moist wound environment
The production of a gel by the action of exudate on the alginate fibres creates a moist wound environment at the wound surface. This prevents eschar formation and promotes faster healing. It is also associated with decreased pain. The dressing allows wound contraction to occur, which helps to reduce scarring and also allows gaseous exchange necessary for a healthy wound bed.
Highly absorbent
In vitro studies have shown that ALGISITE M can absorb 10 times its own weight in exudate. This allows the dressing to remain in the wound for up to 7 days, depending on the nature of the wound.
Indications
Full and partial thickness wounds, with moderate to heavy exudate (e.g. pressure sores, leg ulcers, diabetic ulcers, and post-operative wounds.)
Contraindications / Precautions
- Ensure the packing in cavities, sinuses etc. has been removed.
- The dressing may adhere if used on very lightly exuding wounds. If the dressing is not easily removed, moisten it with saline, then remove.
- Do not use on patients with a known allergy to alginates.
Instructions for use
- Cleanse the wound in accordance with normal procedures.
- ALGISITE M dressings should be applied using an appropriate dressing technique. Choose a dressing that is slightly larger than the wound and place the dressing in intimate contact with the wound base, ensuring the entire surface is covered. The dressing is not intended to overlap the wound edges so any overlap should be cut off or folded over the wound surface. If the wound is deep or undermined, the alginate strip may be the best choice.
- Cover with an appropriate dressing. The alginate will absorb exudate and form a hydrophilic gel over the wound surface. Wound exudate will evaporate from this gel surface and the appropriate secondary dressing should not hinder this evaporative process where exudate is heavy.
Frequency of change
Dressing change frequency will depend on the type and condition of the wound. Generally dressings should be changed daily in heavily exuding wounds or infected wounds, reducing to twice weekly changes as healing proceeds. Change the dressing if wound exudate begins to pool within the wound or if the secondary dressing becomes saturated with exudate. When used on infected wounds, the infection should be inspected and treated in accordance with local clinical protocol.
Frequently Asked Questions About ALGISITE M
What is the average wear time?
Dressing may be left in place for up to 7 days depending on the nature of the wound and level of exudate present. Dressing change frequency will depend on the type and condition of the wound.
How does the dressing achieve hemostasis?
Calcium alginate dressings are designed to liberate calcium early in the acute phase to promote hemostasis. They act as calcium ion (Ca) donors as they contain mannuronic (M) groups with a high Ca content. Hemostasis will depend on the type and condition of the wound.
Can the dressing be used in sinus tracts, tunnels or deep undermining?
Yes, product can be used in sinus tracts, tunnels or deep undermining and remains intact when moist. Ensure that packing cavities, sinuses etc. that the entire dressing has been removed with each dressing change.
Can dressing be used under negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT)?
Not appropriate to use under negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). An alternative suggestion is to use ACTICOAT or ACTICOAT Flex, a mesh design that does not impede exudate from base of wound to NPWT gauze or foam interface.
What products can be used with Algisite M?
ALGISITE M can be used in conjunction with a range of cover dressings including ALLEVYN and PROFORE
Why do some patients experience a "drawing" sensation, or discomfort?
In common with other hydrophilic wound dressings, an initial "drawing" sensation may be experienced shortly after application of the ALGISITE M. Wetting the wound with sterile saline (0.9%) immediately before dressing application may help prevent this discomfort.
Why isn''t the dressing gelling?
As wound healing progresses and the wound becomes smaller less exudate is generally produced. If the wound is not producing enough exudate to gel the ALGISITE M fibres, a different dressing choice should be considered, in line with existing clinical protocols.