Evaluation of Transforming Powder Dressing for Wound Management in Animals: A Case Series

Introduction: Like humans, animals often develop wounds from falls, trauma, and surgery that require wound care. The same wound care products used on humans are also used on animals.  Optimal characteristics in a wound dressing include maintaining optimal moisture balance, minimizing pain and trauma, and ease of use.1 This case series reports  the outcomes of several wounded animals treated with a transforming powder dressing  (TPD) instead of conventional bandages that form the current standard of care (SOC). TPD is an extended wear powder dressing comprised primarily of polymers similar to those used in contact lenses. When hydrated, the polymers aggregate to form a moist oxygen-permeable barrier that covers and protects the wounds.Methods:A sample of 15 animals including horses, dogs, and one cat were included in the study. TPD was utilized on all the wounds with diverse etiologies including pressure injuries, degloving injuries, traumatic lacerations and surgical wounds (including post tumor removal). Digital photographs were taken before applying the TPD and subsequently whenever possible throughout the observation period to track wound healing and how well the TPD adhered to the wound. The post-application observation period ranged from 5-21 days. The frequency of TPD applications were also tracked across different cases and animal types.    Results:Seven horses, seven dogs and one cat were treated. Throughout the evaluation, the animal wounds exhibited clinical signs of improved healing. No complications were observed. TPD application proved to be simple and effectively adhered to the wounds once the dressing had gelled. Dressing change frequency was significantly reduced relative to SOC in all cases. In horses, the data suggests that covering the initial TPD application with a light traditional bandage may enhance its adherence. For at least one dog, not needing a secondary dressing resulted in complete elimination of the animal trying to remove the dressing. The clinical and visual assessment of wounds, including the cat, suggested that the dressing was well tolerated and supported healing and the formation of healthy granulation tissue.Discussion: TPD was easy to use and well tolerated for wounded animals in this case series. No complications were observed.References:1. LeBlanc K et al. Best practice recommendations for the prevention and management of skin tears in aged skin. Wounds International 2018. Available to download from www. woundsinternational.com. Accessed 29May2024.