Occlusive

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Occlusive refers to a class of medical dressings that are airtight and watertight. These dressings are used in medicine to provide a moist healing environment, prevent the ingress of harmful bacteria, and prevent the loss of bodily fluids from the wound site.

Types of Occlusive Dressings[edit | edit source]

There are several types of occlusive dressings, including:

  • Film dressings: These are thin, transparent dressings made from polyurethane. They are permeable to water vapor but impermeable to liquid water and bacteria.
  • Foam dressings: These dressings are made from polyurethane foam. They are highly absorbent and can be used on heavily exuding wounds.
  • Hydrogel dressings: These dressings are made from water-based gels. They are used to hydrate dry wounds and to absorb exudate from wet wounds.

Uses of Occlusive Dressings[edit | edit source]

Occlusive dressings are used in a variety of medical situations, including:

  • To promote wound healing by maintaining a moist environment.
  • To protect wounds from contamination and infection.
  • To manage minor burns and blisters.
  • To provide a barrier against friction and shear forces.

Potential Complications[edit | edit source]

While occlusive dressings can be beneficial, they can also cause complications, such as:

  • Skin maceration: This can occur if the dressing is left on for too long, causing the skin to become overly moist.
  • Infection: While occlusive dressings can protect against external bacteria, they can also trap bacteria inside the wound, potentially leading to an infection.
  • Allergic reaction: Some people may have an allergic reaction to the materials used in occlusive dressings.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Occlusive Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD