ConvaTec Introduces Silver Version of AQUACEL® Foam Dressing

SEATTLE, June 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- ConvaTec, a world-leading developer and marketer of innovative medical technologies, today announced it has received 510(k) market clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for AQUACEL^® Ag Foam dressing.  Extending the company's leadership position in antimicrobial dressings and building on the successful launch of AQUACEL^® Foam dressing last year, the new product is being introduced at the WOCN Society's 45^th Annual Conference from June 23-26 in Seattle, WA.

"Customer reaction to AQUACEL^® Foam – the only dressing to combine the comfort of foam with the moist wound healing benefits of an AQUACEL^® interface – has been incredible.  It is the most successful product launch in our history.  Now, we are taking foam dressings to the next level with the introduction of AQUACEL^® Ag Foam," said Mark Valentine, President, Americas.

New AQUACEL^® Ag Foam dressing is the only silver foam dressing that offers the moist wound healing benefits of an AQUACEL^® Ag interface, the comfort of foam and the bacteria-killing power of ionic silver.  The AQUACEL^® Ag wound interface features ConvaTec's proprietary Hydrofiber^® Technology, which gels on contact with the wound surface.  As demonstrated in vitro, the unique gelling action of Hydrofiber^® Technology locks in wound exudate and harmful bacteria and micro-contours to a simulated wound bed, minimizing "dead space" where bacteria can thrive.

"For shallow exuding wounds that require antimicrobial action, the ideal cover dressing should provide comfort for the patient while also effectively managing exudate and fighting infection," stated Kathryn Braun, RN, WRN, IIWCC from Regina, Saskatchewan.  "With AQUACEL^® Ag Foam dressing, clinicians now have an optimal solution for wounds that are prone to infections – and the peace of mind that comes with the leading brand in advanced antimicrobial dressings."

The proprietary Hydrofiber^® Technology with ionic silver contained in AQUACEL^® Ag Foam dressing has been proven, in vitro, to kill a variety of pathogens, including certain 'superbugs' such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) within 30 minutes, and provide sustained bacteria killing for up to seven days. In an in vitro simulated shallow wound model, AQUACEL^® Ag Foam dressing killed more P. aeruginosa and S. aureus bacteria in the dressing than other silver foam dressings tested.

The gelling action of the AQUACEL^® Ag interface maintains a moist environment that supports wound healing and prevents the lateral spread of fluid which helps to reduce the risk of maceration to the healthy skin surrounding the wound bed.  In in vitro testing, AQUACEL^® Ag Foam dressing absorbed and retained more fluid under compression, and spread less fluid laterally, than other silver foam dressings tested.[1]

"Clinicians around the world rely on AQUACEL^® Ag dressings," concluded Mark Valentine.  "Our goal with AQUACEL^® Ag Foam dressing is to provide a new standard of care in silver foam dressings, combining comfort with optimal exudate management and antimicrobial power. It is part of our commitment to our customers to help them improve care, prevent infection and reduce total cost of care."

The soft, absorbent foam pad is covered by a waterproof protective top layer that provides controlled moisture vapor transmission, whilst providing a barrier against viral and bacterial penetration.  The silicone border provides secure skin-friendly adhesion.

AQUACEL^® Ag Foam dressing is available in a wide range of shapes and sizes to conform to a variety of wound types, including sacral and heel wounds. 

Additional information about AQUACEL^® Ag Foam and AQUACEL^® Foam dressings may be found at www.convatec.com or by calling ConvaTec customer service at 1-800-422-8811.

About ConvaTec
ConvaTec is a leading developer and marketer of innovative medical technologies that have helped improve the lives of millions of people worldwide.  With four key focus areas – Ostomy Care, Wound Therapeutics, Continence and Critical Care, and Infusion Devices – ConvaTec products support healthcare professionals from the hospital to the community health setting. For more information, please visit www.convatec.com

®/™ indicates trademarks of ConvaTec Inc. 
© 2013 ConvaTec Inc.                                                          

[1] In vitro testing of AQUACEL™ Ag Foam dressing and Competitor dressings – Lateral Spread determination. Market Support WHR13662 MS101. 2013. Data on file, ConvaTec.

SOURCE ConvaTec