DRESSINGS

There are many different reasons for putting dressings on a wound but the main reason is to create an environment around the wound that promotes healing. There are all sorts of different dressings with slightly different functions. Putting a dressing on a wound is almost like watering a plant and controlling the soil temperature. If the soil conditions are too wet or dry and/or too hot or cold the plant will not grow very well. Likewise, if a wound is too wet or too dry it will not heal very well. Wounds heal best when there is just enough moisture and humidity and the temperature is just right. An open and exposed wound will take longer to heal than a wound that is properly dressed. The saying about “let it get a little air” is not true when it comes to open wounds.

Dressings are designed to help provide the right conditions around the wound for healing. Dressings work by; keeping the wound moist and humid, absorbing any drainage from the wound, protecting the wound, reducing pain and helping the wound to get rid of any build up of dead skin. Dressings are also designed so that they can be changed without causing pain or injury to the wound. In other words they need to come off without sticking. Unfortunately there is no single dressing that is ideal for all wounds. There are lots of different types of dressings that all function slightly differently.

Dressings are chosen based upon the appearance of the wound and the amount of drainage. Airing out a wound does not promote healing. A scab is an example of a natural dressing. If you have a scab and you pick at it you will notice that it is moist and humid under the scab. The scab is nature's way of providing an ideal environment for the wound to heal. It is rare for scabs to form over large wounds; therefore, dressings are often necessary.

Dressings are an important part of the treatment for foot wounds but it is important to realize that dressings alone are not the only part of the treatment. Keeping pressure off the wound, treating infection and controlling blood sugar are also very important. If you have a foot wound you should discuss dressing choices with your health care provider but don't forget that dressings are just one part of the treatment.

Timothy P. Kalla, DPM, FACFAS
Providence Health Care
Foot & Ankle Program