A snapshot of the products you may use in practice.
COLLAGENS
Action
Collagen, the most abundant protein in the body, is fibrous and insoluble and is produced by fibroblasts. Its fibers are found in connective tissue, including skin, bones, ligaments, and cartilage. During wound healing, collagen encourages the deposition and organization of newly formed collagen fibers and granulation tissue in the wound bed. It also stimulates new tissue development and wound debridement, creating an environment conducive to healing. Collagen dressings are manufactured in sheets, pads, particles, and gels.
Indications
Collagen dressings may be used as primary dressings for partial- and full-thickness wounds, infected and noninfected wounds, tunneling wounds, wounds with minimal to heavy exudate (depending on the form of collagen dressing), skin grafts, donor sites, and red or yellow wounds.
FIGURE
Advantages
* Absorbent
* Maintain a moist, wound-healing environment
* May be used in combination with topical agents
* Conform well to a wound surface
* Nonadherent
* Easy to apply and remove.
Disadvantages
* Not recommended for full-thickness burns
* Not recommended for black wounds
* Require a secondary dressing.
Source: Hess CT. Clinical Guide: Wound Care. Fourth Edition. Springhouse, PA: Springhouse Corporation; 2002:149.