Re: The preventive effect of hydrocolloid dressing to prevent facial pressure and facial marks during use of medical protective equipment in COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract

This letter is in reference to the technical note by de Vera et al1de Vera J.D. Alcalde S.R. Carretero J.C. et al.The preventive effect of hydrocolloid dressing to prevent facial pressure and facial marks during use of medical protective equipment in Covid-19 pandemic.Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2020; (epub ahead of print)Google Scholar The technical note is an important contribution to dental and oral surgery as it documents the need of the hour, which is the safety of the dental professionals. I commend the authors for their meticulous work and well-written note. The emphasis on “most publications related to the prevention of facial injuries caused by medical equipment are described in patients but not amongst healthcare professionals”2Thomas S. Hydrocolloid dressings in the management of acute wounds: a review of the literature.Int Wound J. 2008; 5: 602-613Crossref PubMed Scopus (50) Google Scholar was an eye-opener on one of the most unaddressed topics. It shows the intricate efforts by the author and also gives us a solution to the one of the most ignored, yet a disruptive issue, by the healthcare professionals. The use of hydrocolloid dressing is an outstanding choice based on its excellent healing properties by 40% on superficial trauma, cost-efficiency and availability.3Schwartz D. Magen Y.K. Levy A. et al.Effects of humidity on skin friction against medical textiles as related to prevention of pressure injuries.Int Wound J. 2018; 15: 866-874Crossref PubMed Scopus (42) Google Scholar The use of many adjunct measures like facial massage and cold application are also implemented by some professionals. This technical note motivates us to try it out for professionals in our hospital too. I would once again like to compliment the authors for their insightful work. We have no conflicts of interest. Not required.