Moist wound healing with occlusive dressings : a clinical review

Occlusive dressings have become increasingly popular in the management of wound care. Numerous types of occlusive dressings are presently available for the treatment of acute and chronic wounds. Occlusion enhances wound healing primarily by preventing wound dessication. As a result, epidermal necrosis and eschar formation do not occur, and wounds reepithelialize more quickly. Choosing a dressing to meet the specific needs of the patient can often become confusing for the physician. We review the various types of occlusive dressings and their advantages and disadvantages in the practical management of acute and chronic wounds. A literature review of the subject was performed. Occlusive dressings enhance reepithelialization by preventing wound dessication. Lower infection rates are generally achieved despite bacterial proliferation under some occlusive dressings. Occlusive dressings simplify wound care and are an excellent choice in the management of most acute and chronic wounds. This review should enable the clinician to choose the best dressing to meet the individual wound of the patient.