| abstract |
The invention provides a method of treating wounds in accordance with stages in the healing process by providing environments ideally suited to each stage of chronic wound repair. These environments are designed to improve cell and enzyme function. In the first phase of the treatment, the wound is treated with a debridement dressing which creates an acidic, hypoxic, warm and airtight environment. The debridement dressing comprises a hydrocolloid adhesive combination containing from about 35% to 50% pectin or other hydrocolloid or hydrophilic particle capable of reducing the pH, and further includes a means for monitoring the pH at the wound/dressing interface without removing the dressing. The second phase of the wound treatment is designed to enhance regeneration and provide natural protection against pathogenic invasion. The regeneration dressing used in this phase of treatment comprises a hydrocolloid adhesive containing 5% to 10% pectin to provide wet tack and 30% to 60% of a highly absorptive hydrocolloid or hydrophilic material such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose. The regenerative phase of the treatment yields a healed but fragile wound with thin epidermis which is prone to reinjury. Accordingly, the final phase of the treatment involves a protective dressing which promotes thickening of the epidermal cells, thus strengthening the healed wound. The protective dressing for use in this third phase contains 0.05% to 20% hyaluronic acid, preferably in a carrier or absorbent which will provide controlled delivery over a period of 24 to 96 hours. |