Medetec: Images of surgical dressings:

Alginate and carboxymethylcellulose dressings

The following images are mainly of dressings made from, or containing, significant quantities of alginate or CMC fibre. Both of these preparations are capable of absorbing aqueous solutions, such as wound fluid, which is then retained in the form of a gel which provides a protective layer over the wound surface that is claimed to facilitate healing. Sometimes alginate or CMC fibres are used as wound contact layers on island dressings made from foam or viscose or supplied as ribbon or rope for packing cavities,

For more information on the properties of these and all other wound management materials, why not take a moment to review 'Surgical Dressings and Wound Management'. This comprehensive publication, which contains a uniquely detailed account of all aspects of the development, structure and clinical performance of all types of wound dressings, also provides an easily digested description of the wound healing process and explains how this may be promoted (or inhibited) by the application of different types of dressings. Fully illustrated throughout, it is available in both printed and electronic form and has been described by Dr. Diane L. Krasner, Wound & Skin Care Consultant, York, PA, USA as a 'must-have' for anyone involved with wound dressings.

These images of alginate dressings may be freely reproduced subject to certain conditions