The five-layer foam dressing has independent, non-bonded layers that slide to dissipate mechanical energy. Credit: Smith+Nephew.

Medical technology company, Smith+Nephew ,has announced the publication of a study highlighting that its ALLEVYN LIFE foam dressing shows a novel mechanism of action relating to pressure injury prevention (PIP). 

The ALLEVYN LIFE foam dressing has layers that can slide independently which helps absorb the mechanical energy which could otherwise harm the patient. The sliding action reduces pressure on the skin and tissues underneath.  

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The study, published in the International Wound Journal, demonstrated that this frictional sliding of the dressing absorbs 30-45% of the mechanical energy, potentially lowering the risk of pressure injuries.  

The dressing can be used to help prevent or manage wounds including pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, surgical wounds, or traumatic injuries. By reducing pressure and absorbing mechanical energy, it can aid the healing process and prevent further injury.  

In June 2023, Smith+Nephew received an Innovative Technology contract from Vizient to supply its PICO single-use negative pressure wound therapy (sNPWT) system. Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in January 2022, the silicone-based, four-layer technology is designed to manage exudate from wounds by simultaneously evaporating and locking it away. 

Earlier this month, the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommended that the PICO sNPWT should be considered for closing surgical incisions in patients who are at high risk of surgical site infections. 

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According to a model on GlobalData’s Medical Intelligence Center, the wound management market is forecast to generate $2.4m in 2030, compared to $2m in 2023. 

GlobalData is the parent company of Clinical Trials Arena.

In the announcement accompanying the results, president of advanced wound management at Smith+Nephew Rohit Kashyap said: “This alignment of the laboratory findings with the clinical literature clearly demonstrates the enhanced clinical efficacy of ALLEVYN LIFE Dressings in helping reduce the burden of preventable pressure injuries as one of the only 5-layer foam dressings with independent, non-bonded layers.” 

In January 2024, Medline launched its OptiView transparent dressing designed for skin monitoring and pressure injury prevention. Made with HydroCore Technology, it is engineered to redistribute pressure and dissipate heat using gel to create a cooling effect.