Summary
An article on the use of alginate dressings in diabetic foot ulcer care. It discusses dressing characteristics and selection within the broader management of diabetic foot wounds.
- Study type
- Review article
Key points
- Alginate dressings are highly absorbent and can be used on moderately to heavily exuding diabetic foot ulcers and sinuses.
- They can be removed without pain or trauma to new tissue.
- Alginate is described as an effective haemostat that is generally well tolerated by body tissues.
- Alginates have been reported as cost-effective by reducing the number of dressing changes and nursing time.
- Alginate dressings should not be used on low-exuding wounds or wounds with necrotic tissue.