A randomized clinical study comparing a hydrocellular dressing to a hydrocolloid dressing in the management of pressure ulcers.

This study compared an adhesive hydrocellular dressing with a leading hydrocolloid dressing in the management of pressure ulcers. Forty adult patients of both sexes who had Stage II or III pressure ulcers (according to the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research system) were enrolled in the study and were randomized to either the hydrocellular or hydrocolloid dressing. Dressing changes were done as required, and each ulcer was assessed on a weekly basis. Patients were followed for 8 weeks, until ulcer closure was achieved, or until the patient was withdrawn from the study, whichever occurred first. The hydrocellular dressing was found to compare favorably with the hydrocolloid dressing. In terms of ease of use, the hydrocellular dressing was found to be significantly easier to remove (P < 0.001) and quicker to change (P < 0.001) than the hydrocolloid dressing. No differences were detected between the two dressing groups regarding mean wound pain, odor, and changes in ulcer appearance and ulcer area.