Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

The invention provides a prepackaged dressing including dry particulate solids for forming a pourable, water-based natural or synthetic hydrocolloidal polyemeric gel to dress wounds. The gel contains a biologically active constituent. Liquid and dry, solid particulate components are separate and are mixed just before use. One dry constituent is the hydrocolloid which is contained in a compartment of a sealed container separate from moisture. After mixing with water, the dry hydrocolloid does not become fully hydrated immediately. The liquid component (water) provides a fluid consistency initially. At this stage, the admixture is sufficiently fluid in consistency to allow it to be poured or spread into a wound. Following application to the wound, the hydrated hydrocolloidal dispersion begins to solidify to form a solid, self-supporting flexible dressing structure consisting primarily of water, the hydrocolloid, as well as the biologically active constituent, e.g., an antibiotic, disinfectant, growth factor or the like in contact with the tissue of the animal or human patient. A gelling or cross-linking agent can also be used advantageously with some of the hydrocolloids. The resulting dressing becomes molded to the shape of the wound and contains a large quantity of moisture that will maintain the wound in a moist condition.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim