A Comparison Between Two Post-operative Dressings

DrySee® is a waterproof bandage designed to protect surgical incisions. It contains an indicator at the perimeter of the dressing, and at the wound site that turns blue when it comes into contact with liquid (figure 1). The indicator identifies a break in the integrity of the postoperative dressing. Changing the dressing at this point prevents bacteria from reaching the incision reducing the risk of infection. In addition, the waterproof dressing allows patients to shower or bath following surgery.

Tegaderm® is a transparent adhesive dressing commonly used as a postoperative dressing. The dressing has been shown to be superior to gauze in reducing SSIs. Tegaderm®, like DrySee,® is waterproof; however, it lacks technology that identifies a breach in dressing integrity.