Hydrocolloid dressing

Duoderm is an opaque dressing used in medicine to protect wounds from contamination, and provide a moist wound-healing environment. It is generically known as a hydrocolloid dressing, made from a fruit pectin derivative. Hydrocolloids were initially utilized in medicine as a reliable, skin-friendly adhesive, useful for securing colostomy appliances to the patient's abdomen. Clinicians observed that acute abdominal wounds from colostomy operations healed more rapidly when a hydrocolloid was used. It is biodegradeable, nonbreathable and adheres to the skin so no separate taping is needed.

It not only protects wounds but allows them to heal faster. Many people like to apply these patches on the face in order to heal acne. They are also used to secure nasogastric tubes or CPAP masks to the patient's face, without causing skin irritation. Duoderm is often used to heal bedsores (also known as pressure ulcers). As well as promoting healing, duoderm provides great comfort to the patient, as this type of wound is often extremely uncomfortable and an added layer of protection is soothing.

External links

• http://www.dressings.org/Dressings/duoderm-et.html