Assessment of a Novel Biomatrix Wound Contact Layer Using Simulated NPWT

A perforated bioresorbable wound contact layer (WCL) has been developed that provides the protection of a low-adherent WCL with the wound healing benefits of a biomatrix dressing. The aim of this study was to understand the compatibility of the WCL with negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) and to have an understanding of the wear time of the WCL in vitro.

An in vitro NPWT model has been developed based on the publication from Thomas et al.,¹ which describes an in vitro simulated wound model. The model was modified to be compatible with NPWT by using various flow rates and model wound fluid solutions. The WCL was accompanied by NPWT foam, cover dressing, and connected to a vacuum pressure of 125 mmHg for up to 5 days.

The in vitro data suggests a wear time of up to 5 days can be achieved by a biomatrix WCL. The presence of the WCL did not impede the negative pressure during the study in comparison to the control, the flow rates remained within the optimal range during the entire duration of the study.
A novel biomatrix WCL has been developed that lasts for 5 days in vitro under a range of model wound fluid solutions and flow rates, demonstrating its compatibility with NPWT.

1. Thomas, S., Fram, P., The development of a novel technique for predicting the exudate handling properties of modern wound dressings. World Wide Wounds, 2001.