Wound fillers do exactly as their name suggests–they fill an empty space. They come in a variety of formulations and generally require the use of a secondary dressing to hold them in place.
Product Overview
Wound fillers include gels, pastes, foams, powders, ribbons, and other formulations whose major purpose is to fill a space in a cavity. They also help to absorb wound drainage and maintain a moist wound environment.
Indications
- Partial-thickness wounds
- Full-thickness wounds
- Wounds that require packing to fill wound space
- Wounds that have moderate to heavy exudate
- Infected wounds
Contraindications
- Cannot be used in wounds that have tunnelled or have formed sinus tracts due to difficulty of removal
- Should not be used on wounds with minimal drainage (“dry” wounds)
- Should not be used on third-degree burns
Advantages
- Can be used with other types of dressings to help absorb and manage wound exudate (i.e. composites, foams)
- Help to soften necrotic tissue, thus aiding in debridement
- Wound fillers containing antimicrobials help to control infection
- May be very absorbent
- Some are easy to apply and remove
- Help to maintain a moist wound environment
Disadvantages
- Require the use of a secondary dressing, which adds to the cost of managing a wound
- Some of these dressings may be difficult to apply and remove
How often these dressings are changed will depend on the size and depth of the wound, as well as on how much the wound is draining. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. Some of these dressings may need to be moistened with normal saline prior to use.
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Sources:
Hess, C. (2002). Clinical Guide: Wound Care. Fourth Edition. Springhouse, PA: Springhouse Corporation
Corbett, L., Dubuc, D. & Milne, C. (2002). Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing Secrets. Elsevier Health Sciences ISBN-13: 9781560535232
