Assessment of the Effectiveness of Superabsorbent Dressings from the Perspective of Doctors and Patients

Methodology and Course of the Study

An open observational multicenter study evaluated various parameters of superabsorbent polymer dressings in the care of acute and chronic wounds with medium to higher levels of exudate in patients with different types of skin defects. The primary goal was to evaluate the absorption properties of the dressings over a period of 2 weeks. Doctors recorded subjective evaluations of exudate levels and the impact of the therapy on the surrounding skin. They also monitored the condition of the wound bed, healing trajectory, and pain intensity. The study also included an evaluation of the superabsorbent polymer dressings from the patients' perspective.

Results

The superabsorbent polymer dressings were rated as very good in 83% of cases for their absorption properties, and good in 13% of patients. Doctors involved in the study stated that they would continue to use this type of dressing on their patients even after the study ended. The superabsorbent dressings promoted quality wound healing and contributed to less damage to the surrounding skin. A reduction in pain was observed during pain assessment. Patients particularly appreciated the adaptability and comfort provided by the superabsorbent polymer dressings. These qualities positively affected their quality of life.

A cost sub-analysis showed that compared to other commonly used dressing methods, the application of superabsorbent polymer dressings is less financially costly. The cost reduction is mainly related to the frequency of wound dressings and the time healthcare professionals need to devote to them. In a monitored group of 10 patients, overall wound care costs decreased by 47%.

The cost-effectiveness of superabsorbent dressings is also confirmed by an international study from 2020, which states that these dressings bring an average saving of 222 pounds over six months of care for one patient with moderately to highly exudative leg ulcers, compared to standard dressings. According to the results of this study, the use of superabsorbent dressings is also associated with a higher rate of wound healing.

Summary and Conclusion

Both presented works demonstrate that superabsorbent polymer dressings are a very effective method of wound care for medium to higher levels of exudate. The dressings have positive impacts on the wound healing process, the quality of the surrounding skin, and the intensity of pain. Another advantage is their lower financial burden compared to standard, commonly used types of dressings.

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Sources:
1. Barrett S., Callaghan R., Chadwick P. et al. An observational study of a superabsorbent polymer dressing evaluated by clinicians and patients. J Wound Care 2018; 27 (2): 91–100, doi: 10.12968/jowc.2018.27.2.91. 
2. Veličković V. M., Chadwick P., Rippon M. G. et al. Cost-effectiveness of superabsorbent wound dressing versus standard of care in patients with moderate-to-highly exuding leg ulcers. J Wound Care 2020; 29 (4): 235–246, doi: 10.12968/jowc.2020.29.4.235.