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What is a collagen dressing?
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A collagen dressing is a type of wound dressing made with a form of collagen to aid in the body's healing processes. Collagen is a category of structural proteins that are naturally present in almost every part of the human body and especially common in connective tissue.
In a wound, the application of these proteins protects the body's own collagen from degradation because of over-activity of enzymes so that body has the building materials needed to repair the damage.
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Are there any contraindications for collagen dressings?
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Don’t use collagen dressings in the following circumstances:
• Third-degree burns
• Patient sensitivity to bovine (cattle), porcine (swine), or avian (bird) products
• Wounds covered in dry eschar
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How to apply collagen dressings?
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Some collagen products will require a secondary cover dressing. Application technique varies based upon manufacturer recommendations.
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What should be the frequency of collagen dressing changes?
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The frequency of dressing changes will vary depending on the brand, but ranges from daily to every 7 days.
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What are the various formulations available for collagen dressings?
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A variety of topical formulations of collagen are available, such as freeze-dried sheets, pastes, pads, powder and gels. Some dressings include alginates or even antimicrobial additives. The collagen source varies — bovine, porcine or avian.
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Any indications for collagen dressings?
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- Wounds that have 'stalled' in the healing phase
- Partial thickness burns
- Diabetic ulcers
- Pressure ulcers
- Skin graft donor sites
- Dehisced surgical wounds
- Infected wounds, providing the infection is managed locally or systemically
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