Super-absorbent dressings: how do they perform in vitro?

The free swell and absorption capacity under compression of six wound dressings that are indicated for moderately to highly exuding wounds was investigated. Measuring in vitro the absorptive capacity and retention under compression is important in terms of clinical efficacy and efficiency. This in vitro comparative study demonstrated that sorbion sachet EXTRA had the highest free swell capacity of the six test dressings and absorbed more than twice the volume (126%) of the test solution than its nearest competitor. When measuring capacity under compression, sorbion sachet EXTRA absorbed 88% more fluid than the nearest competitor.