ConvaTec Introduces New Version of Foam Dressing

ConvaTec has received 510(k) market clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its Aquacel Ag Foam dressing. The new product was introduced at the WOCN (Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses) Society’s 45th Annual Conference last month in Seattle, Wash.

“Customer reaction to Aquacel Foam–the only dressing to combine the comfort of foam with the moist wound healing benefits of an Aquacel interface–has been incredible. It is the most successful product launch in our history. Now, we are taking foam dressings to the next level with the introduction of Aquacel Ag Foam,” said Mark Valentine, ConvaTec President, Americas.

Aquacel Ag Foam dressing is described by the company as the only silver foam dressing that offers the moist wound healing benefits of an Aquacel Ag interface, the comfort of foam and the bacteria-killing power of ionic silver. The Aquacel Ag wound interface features ConvaTec’s proprietary hydrofiber technology, which gels on contact with the wound surface. As demonstrated in vitro, the gelling action of hydrofiber technology locks in wound exudate and harmful bacteria and micro-contours to a simulated wound bed, minimizing “dead space” where bacteria can thrive.

“For shallow exuding wounds that require antimicrobial action, the ideal cover dressing should provide comfort for the patient while also effectively managing exudate and fighting infection,” stated Kathryn Braun, R.N., W.R.N., I.I.W.C.C., from Regina, Saskatchewan (Canada). “With Aquacel Ag foam dressing, clinicians now have an optimal solution for wounds that are prone to infections–and the peace of mind that comes with the leading brand in advanced antimicrobial dressings.”

The proprietary hydrofiber technology with ionic silver contained in Aquacel Ag foam dressing has been proven in vitro to kill various pathogens, including certain ‘superbugs’ such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) within 30 minutes, and provide sustained bacteria killing for up to seven days. In an in-vitro simulated shallow wound model, Aquacel Ag foam dressing killed more P. aeruginosa and S. aureus bacteria in the dressingthan other silver foam dressings tested.

The gelling action of the Aquacel Ag interface maintains a moist environment that supports wound healing and prevents the lateral spread of fluid which helps to reduce the risk of maceration to the healthy skin surrounding the wound bed. In in-vitro testing, Aquacel Ag foam dressing absorbed and retained more fluid under compression, and spread less fluid laterally, than other silver foam dressings tested.

“Clinicians around the world rely on Aquacel Ag dressings,” concluded Mark Valentine. “Our goal with Aquacel Ag foam dressing is to provide a new standard of care in silver foam dressings, combining comfort with optimal exudate management and antimicrobial power.”

The soft, absorbent foam pad is covered by a waterproof protective top layer that provides controlled moisture vapor transmission, whilst providing a barrier against viral and bacterial penetration. The silicone border provides secure skin-friendly adhesion.

Aquacel Ag foam dressing is available in a wide range of shapes and sizes to conform to a variety of wound types, including sacral and heel wounds.

Based in Skillman, N.J.,ConvaTec develops infusion devices and products for ostomy care, wound therapeutics, and continence/critical care.