Informational Resource for Antimicrobial Dressings
Antimicrobial Dressings
Topical antimicrobial dressings containing silver or iodine are used to either kill
or control the growth of micro-organisms in wounds.
Increasing interest in the use
of topical antimicrobial dressings as an alternative to systemic antibiotics
comes
from increasing concerns over the development and spread of antibiotic resistance
bacteria.
Topical antimicrobial dressings maybe useful for chronic wounds with
superficial local wound infection and poor arterial flow and chronic edema.
Antimicrobial dressings containing silver or iodine can be used on acute or chronic
wounds, which are critically
colonized, or when local and/or spreading infection is
already compromising the wound.
For those with compromised arterial flow and
chronic edema, the use of systemic antibiotics may have poor efficacy.
Careful use
of a range of medicated dressings, such as those containing iodine and silver
products, maybe a successful
treatment of chronic wounds with superficial,
local wound infection.
The information provided here is intended to inform readers. Patients should address specific
medical concerns with their physicians.