Alginate Dressings are highly absorbent wound care products made from
the calcium salts of alginic acid, typically derived from brown seaweed. They
are designed for wounds with moderate to heavy drainage, such as pressure
ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, surgical wounds, and donor sites. Upon contact
with wound exudate, they form a soft gel that promotes a moist healing
environment, helps with autolytic debridement, and minimizes pain during
removal.� Several leading manufacturers
produce alginate dressings, each offering unique formulations:
�
3M offers Tegaderm Alginate and Tegaderm Alginate Ag,
known for high integrity and silver-infused antimicrobial properties.
�
Smith-Nephew
manufactures Algisite
M and ALLEVYN Alginate, which are soft, conformable, and available in
antimicrobial forms.
�
Convatec produces AQUACEL Ag and AQUACEL �Extra,
combining alginate with Hydrofiber technology for
enhanced absorbency and wound healing.
�
Molnlycke Health Care
supplies Melgisorb and Melgisorb Ag, known for their
ease of use and minimal tissue trauma.
�
Medline Industries
provides Algicell
Ag and Opticell Ag, offering
cost-effective solutions with or without silver for infection control.
�
Cardinal Health
markets Cardinal
Health Alginate Dressings, which are
basic yet reliable options for exudate management.
�
Derma Sciences
(an Integra LifeSciences company) makes Medihoney Calcium Alginate,
which combines alginate with medical-grade honey to support healing and manage
bioburden.
These dressings
are widely used in hospitals, clinics, and home care settings due to their
versatility and effectiveness in managing exudating wounds.