Creed Health

Review article

Celebrating 25 years of Sorbsan and its contribution to advanced wound management

Morris C. Wounds UK. 2008;4(4):114–119.

Summary

An article reviewing Sorbsan’s development and use in wound management over 25 years. It discusses calcium alginate dressing properties and their application in clinical wound care.

Study type
Review article

Key points

  • The original Sorbsan alginate dressing was launched in 1983 and had been in clinical use for 25 years at the time of writing.
  • It is made from Laminaria and Ascophyllum seaweed; calcium ions exchange with sodium ions in wound fluid to form a gel.
  • Sorbsan is rich in mannuronic acid, which produces a soft amorphous gel.
  • The range is described as maintaining a moist wound environment and designed for moderate to high exudate.
  • The author notes that Sorbsan is best known for ease of application and pain-free removal.