Introducing a new paradigm for bioburden management

Abstract

The prevention and management of infection relies largely on the use of topical antimicrobial dressings. These treatments achieve their effects by killing bacteria, but this results in the presence of bacterial cell debris in the wound and the release of endotoxins, which may prolong inflammation. An alternative approach, where bacteria and fungi bind irreversibly to the wound dressing as a result of a hydrophobic interaction and are then removed at dressing change, avoids the risk of prolonged inflammation and the potential for resistance. A further benefit is that there is no risk of toxicity to healthy tissue or systemic absorption