Collagen is a fibrous protein which is insoluble and is produced by cells called fibroblasts˳ Dressings formed from collagen serve many purposes˳ This article describes what makes these dressings different from others, and how they are used˳
Product Overview
Collagen is found in many different types of connective tissues, such as cartilage, bone, ligaments and skin˳ Collagen dressings can stimulate the growth of new tissue in the wound bed˳ These dressings can be found in many different forms, such as sheets, gels, pads, particles and pastes˳ They are manufactured from bovine, porcine, or avian sources, and may be purified to prevent reaction˳ However, some people may still experience a reaction to bovine-based collagen products˳
Indications
- Wounds that have “stalled” in the healing phase
- Partial thickness burns
- Pressure ulcers
- Diabetic ulcers
- Skin graft donor sites
- Dehisced surgical wounds
- Infected wounds, providing the infection is managed locally or systemically
Contraindications
- Dry wounds
- Wounds with necrosis
- Third-degree burns
- Sensitivity to bovine products
Advantages
- Absorb fluids (exudate)
- Help to maintain a moist wound environment
- Can be used with topical agents
- Accelerate the repair of wounds
- Conform to any shape of wound
- Non-adherent; will not stick to newly granulated tissue
- Easy to apply and remove
- The dressing can be left in place for up to 7 days
Disadvantages
- Require a secondary dressing
- Can be expensive to use
- May be unpleasant for the patient due to unusual odor
- Application may be difficult
If used on dry wounds, collagen dressings should be pre-moistened with normal saline˳ Manufacturer’s directions for use should be followed, and the expiration date on collagen products should be checked, as some of these products are not heat-stable when stored improperly˳
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Reference:
Worley, C˳ (2005)˳ So, what do I put on this wound? Wound dressing puzzle: part 1: collagen dressings˳ Dermatology Nursing, 17(2):143-144˳
Corbett, L˳, Dubuc, D˳, & Milne, C˳ (2002)˳ Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing Secrets; A Hanley and Belfus Title, ISBN 1560535237
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