Case series evaluating the performance of two superabsorbent dressings combined with cohesive two-layer compression bandages for the treatment of highly exuding venous leg ulcers

BACKGROUND: Venous leg ulcers are highly exuding and require compression, which challenges a dressing to absorb while being compressed. AIMS: This study compares exudate management on venous leg ulcers with different superabsorbent dressings used in combination with compression therapy. METHODS: This wound care improvement feasibility study is a case series of 10 patients with highly exuding venous leg ulcers. The authors followed the progress of patients for 2 weeks with a standardised superabsorbent dressing, then switched to a different superabsorbent dressing for 4 weeks while using the same compression system in both care periods. They recorded frequency of care, dressing size, dressing weight at removal, leakage, maceration, wound size and patient comfort. FINDINGS: Superabsorbent dressings varied in performance for the management of exudate under compression. CONCLUSIONS: Better exudate management helps to manage periwound maceration and may potentially facilitate healing. This may shorten the duration of care, improve patient quality of life and could potentially reduce costs.