| Product Name: | Aquacel ribbon |
| Classification Name: | Dressing Hydrofibre |
| Manufacturer: | ConvaTec Ltd |
Aquacel is a soft, sterile, hydrophilic non-woven ribbon dressing composed entirely of hydrocolloid fibres (sodium carboxymethylcellulose). The characteristics of the fibre are such that it absorbs when it comes into intimate contact with liquid not via the usual mechanism of capillary action. Absorbed fluid is retained within the structure of the fibre even under compression. As Aquacel absorbs exudate it is rapidly converted from a dry dressing to a soft coherent gel. Aquacel maintains a moist environment for optimal wound healing, aids autolytic debridement, and is easily removed with little or no damage to newly formed tissue.
Aquacel is indicated for the management of exuding cavity wounds including such as pressure sores, although it can also be used in other deep wounds such as leg ulcers. Surgical or traumatic wounds that have been left to heal by secondary intent may be dressed with Aquacel which is also indicated for the local management of wounds that are prone to bleeding such as wounds that have been mechanically or surgically debrided, donor sites and traumatic wounds.
Known sensitivity to Aquacel or its components
The ribbon should be loosely laid into the wound not packed in tightly. The Aquacel should be covered with a secondary dressing such as a hydrocolloid sheet (e.g. Granuflex or Duoderm Extra Thin), a perforated plastic film dressing or an absorbent pad as appropriate..
The dressing should be changed when it becomes saturated with exudate. The dressing can remain in place for up to 7 days.
Colonisation of chronic wounds is common and is not a contraindication to the use of Aquacel. Should infection develop during the use of the dressing, appropriate antibiotic therapy should be initiated. The use of Aquacel may be continued but the progress of the wound should be monitored carefully and all treatment should be under medical supervision.
Occasionally irrigation with sterile saline may be required to facilitate removal of the dressing.
For wounds such as fistulae and sinus tracts, employ appropriate techniques during the insertion and removal of the dressing.
Because Aquacel provides a moist environment that promotes angiogenesis, occasionally delicate newly formed capillaries may produce a sero-sanguinous exudate.
Aquacel is available in a blister pack, sterilised by irradiation.
Aquacel should be stored in a cool dry place, protected from light.
2 m x 45 cm,
Aquacel is a Medical Device conforming to the Essential Requirements
of Medical Device Directive 93/42/EEC and therefore CE marking is
affixed.
| Revision Author | Dr S. Thomas |
| Revision No | 1.3 |
| Revision date | 1997/12/16 |
This datacard has been prepared from data provided by the manufacturer and/or from published literature.