Woven and Nonwoven Medical/Surgical Materials

Abstract

The physical characteristics and performance attributes of absorbent gauze and spunlaced nonwovens used for medical/surgical applications are reviewed. Because the manufacturing lines for spunlacing are versatile and highly productive, nonwoven products from this process are highly engineered and may have superior performance characteristics relative to gauze products. Dressings made from spunlaced materials are rapidly gaining in the wound care products market, which was once exclusive to woven gauze. A few microscopic images and SEM photomicrographs of a gauze made with two dissimilar technologies are included to show structural differences between the two, which otherwise are difficult to detect visually.