Management of Infiltration Injury in Neonates Using DuoDerm Hydroactive Gel

Neonates are at increased risk of injury from infiltration of intravenous fluids because of small vessel size and immature skin structure. Until recently, hyaluronidase injection was used to prevent tissue injury following the infiltration of intravenous solutions in neonates. The production of hyaluronidase injection was discontinued in 2001. The alternative, compounded hyaluronidase injection is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is subject to variation in quality assurance practices. Amorphous hydrogels have been used as wound dressings for sloughy or necrotic wounds in a variety of clinical settings. Hydrogels facilitate autodebridement of the wound by rehydrating slough and enhancing the rate of autolysis. No adverse effects or increased infection rates have been associated with the use of hydrogel dressings. DuoDerm Hydroactive gel is a sterile, preservative-free, viscous, hydrating gel composed of natural hydrocolloids. We report our experience using DuoDerm Hydroactive gel for management of injury secondary to the infiltration of total parenteral nutrition solution and lipid emulsion in three neonates.