Foams

摘要

Available as either polyurethane or silicone, foams are invariably popular due to their ease of application and capacity to satisfy many of the criteria for an ideal wound dressing.1 Their development was an attempt to counter the shortcomings in the absorbency of film dressings while conforming to the principle of moist wound healing.2 Some foams require a secondary dressing to stay in place, but others are self-adherent. Some are shaped for application to specific/awkward body sites, such as the sacrum. Some skin reactions have been observed following the use of dressings with aggressive adhesives. Most foams are supplied in sheet form, although cavity versions are also available.Foam dressings differ in composition and so the clinical performance between brands varies. They are not advised for use on dry wounds, especially when eschar is present.