ALGICELL Ag Calcium Alginate Wound Dressing with Antimicrobial Silver, from DermaSciences, Inc, Princeton, NJ, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in patients who require a topical antimicrobial as part of their advanced wound management protocol. The next-generation wound product is the first silver alginate dressing available that offers the full benefit of antimicrobial ionic silver combined with pure alginate fibers, according to the manufacturer.

ALGICELL Ag consists of 1.4% silver-released in its ionic form-and a proprietary blend of mannuronic and guluronic alginic acids. The silver ions are released in a controlled fashion to provide constant protection and wear times. Ionic silver has been shown to have strong antimicrobial effectiveness against a broad spectrum of bacteria and fungi.

[black up pointing small triangle] Information:http://www.dermasciences.com

Nanotech Briefs has recognized Acticoat Burn Dressing (Smith & Nephew, Largo, FL) with SILCRYST nanocrystalline silver coating, developed by NUCRYST Pharmaceuticals Corp, Wakefield, MA, for its innovation in medical nanotechnology. Acticoat was named in the product category of the "Nano 50," which recognizes the top 50 technologies, products, and innovators that have significantly impacted, or are expected to impact, nanotechnology.

Advanced wound care products with NUCRYST's SILCRYST nanocrystalline coating are sold by Smith & Nephew plc under its Acticoat trademark in more than 30 countries worldwide. Acticoat dressings are used for a variety of wound types in many different health care settings.