Outcomes with use of Novel Silicone-Acrylic Hybrid Drape During Negative Pressure Wound Therapy

Introduction: Use of a standard acrylic adhesive drape over foam dressings to produce a seal during negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has historically presented challenges. Applying the drape can be cumbersome, and removal of the drape can harm surrounding tissue and cause pain.^1,2 A novel, low tack adhesive silicone-acrylic hybrid drape that may be re-positioned and re-placed is recently commercially available.³ We report our initial evaluation results of the functionality of this hybrid drape during NPWT and fluid instillation.

Methods: Negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and dwell (NPWTi-d*) of a topical hypochlorous acid solution was applied via an open-cell foam dressing with through holes^ƚ. A hybrid drape^ǂ, consisting of polyurethane film with acrylic adhesive and a silicone perforated layer, was trimmed and applied over the foam plus a 5-7 cm periwound tissue border. A sensing pad with tubing was applied between the dressing and NPWTi-d device. Solution dwell time was 20 minutes, followed by 3 hours of NPWT, and dressings were changed every 3 days.

Results: The silicone-acrylic drape was used during eight applications in three large complex wounds: a burn wound, stage IV pressure injury, and traumatic wound. In all cases, the seal was maintained between dressing changes, including during intervals of solution instillation. The drape did not need to be re-placed or re-positioned during therapy or any dressing change. No peri-wound tissue was harmed and there were no complaints of pain during drape removal. All wounds progressed toward closure during therapy.

Discussion: This drape could be removed more easily and less painfully than a standard NPWT drape. Of significant importance, the seal integrity was maintained, even during and after fluid instillation. Unique properties of this drape allowing re-positioning and re-application could help reduce waste and save time.