Introduction to Wound Dressings

Abstract

Chronic wounds are those that have difficulties with healing. Medical disorders that affect healing include diabetes mellitus, low HGH (human growth hormone), rheumatoid arthritis, vascular insufficiency, immunosuppression, radiation, and zinc deficiency. Wounds need a moist environment, treatment of infection, and removal of devitalized or necrotic tissue. The author discusses wound dressings that will improve healing and will help to close the wound in a shorter time than secondary intention healing. Physicians should be aware of the type of wounds each type of dressing is used for and how often its application is changed.