Smith & Nephew Algisite M Calcium Alginate Dressing, 3/4" x 12" Rope, Sterile

3/4" x 12" Calcium Alginate Rope for Cavity and Tunneling Wound Packing

Product Description

Managing deep, cavity, or tunneling wounds with moderate to heavy drainage presents unique challenges for patients and caregivers. Flat dressings cannot reach into these spaces, and standard gauze packing can dry out, adhere to the wound bed, and cause trauma during removal. Finding a highly absorbent, conformable solution that fills dead space and supports a clean wound bed is essential for effective healing

The Smith & Nephew Algisite M Calcium Alginate Dressing is designed to address these needs. This 3/4" x 12" sterile rope is made from fast-gelling, high mannuronic acid fibers derived from calcium alginate, a natural material extracted from seaweed . When the dressing contacts wound exudate, it forms a soft, hydrophilic gel that remains in intimate contact with the wound surface, helping to create and maintain a moist wound environment . This gel formation allows for easy, atraumatic removal, and the dressing can typically be lifted out in one piece or irrigated with saline, helping to minimize fiber shed and residue in the wound

This Smith & Nephew dressing is designed for versatility and comfort. The soft, conformable rope format is ideal for packing cavity and tunneling wounds where a flat dressing cannot conform effectively . It is suitable for pressure injuries, venous leg ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, and surgical wounds with moderate to heavy exudate . A secondary dressing is required to hold the alginate in place and protect the wound from outside contaminants . Each box contains 10 individually wrapped sterile dressings

Features

• Fast-Gelling Calcium Alginate: Made from high mannuronic acid fibers that form a soft, integral gel upon contact with exudate, helping to absorb drainage and maintain a moist healing environment .
• High Absorbency: Capable of absorbing significant amounts of exudate, helping to reduce the frequency of dressing changes for moderately to heavily draining wounds .
• Minimal Fiber Shed: Advanced bonding technology helps minimize residual fibers left in the wound bed, supporting a cleaner wound environment .
• Maintains Physical Integrity When Wet: The gel formed remains cohesive, allowing the dressing to be removed in one piece rather than breaking apart .
• Rope Format for Packing: The 3/4" x 12" rope is specifically designed for packing cavity and tunneling wounds, filling dead space and conforming to irregular wound shapes .
• Easy, Atraumatic Removal: The gel-like consistency helps prevent the dressing from sticking to the wound bed, reducing pain and trauma during changes .
• Sterile and Latex-Free: Each dressing is sterile and not made with natural rubber latex, suitable for sensitive patients

Why Choose Smith & Nephew

1. Better than basic alternatives:
   Unlike standard gauze packing that can dry out and adhere to the wound bed, the Algisite M rope forms a gel upon contact with exudate, allowing for easy, one-piece removal without disrupting delicate new tissue . The high mannuronic acid content provides fast gelling and helps maintain the dressing's structural integrity when wet, which is a significant advantage over basic alginate dressings that may break apart during removal.
2. Safer than chemical/medicated options:
   This dressing provides a physical, mechanical approach to exudate management without the use of topical antimicrobial agents. The calcium alginate material is gentle on sensitive skin, and the dressing is designed to be non-irritating. The natural seaweed-derived fibers support a moist wound environment without introducing harsh chemicals.
3. Better long-term value:
   The high absorbency of the Algisite M dressing helps reduce the frequency of dressing changes by managing exudate effectively . The minimal fiber shed and one-piece removal mean less time spent cleaning the wound bed, and the rope format is specifically designed for cavity wounds, eliminating the need for separate packing materials. The convenient box of 10 provides a reliable supply for ongoing wound care needs