Traditional Wound Care
Core principles of traditional wound care
Dry healing environment
The historical belief was that keeping a wound dry would help it heal faster. However, research has since shown that a moist environment is more effective for cell regeneration.
Protection from contaminants
Preventing infection was the primary goal. Dressings created a passive barrier between the wound and the outside environment.
Absorption
Materials like cotton wool and woven gauze were used to absorb wound exudate (fluid), but their low capacity and tendency to stick to the wound were significant disadvantages.
Common traditional methods and materials
Gauze
This is the most common and recognizable traditional wound dressing. It is made of woven or non-woven fibers of cotton, rayon, or polyester. Gauze’s main purpose is to protect the wound and absorb fluids.
"Wet-to-dry" dressings
A technique where moistened gauze was applied to a wound and allowed to dry, then ripped off to remove dead tissue. This process is now largely considered outdated and traumatic to the new tissue growing beneath.
Bandages
These are made from materials like natural cotton or synthetic fibers to hold a dressing in place. Examples include crepe and cohesive wraps.
Tulle dressings: These are gauzes impregnated with substances like paraffin, which prevent them from sticking to the wound. They are still used for superficial wounds with low exudate levels.
Herbal and natural compounds
In addition to manufactured dressings, traditional practices around the world have historically used a variety of natural products to aid healing. Some of these are still used today or have inspired modern treatments.
Aloe vera: Used for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to promote healing in burn and surgical wounds.
Turmeric
The compound curcumin found in turmeric has been used for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Yarrow
A plant traditionally used to stop bleeding and aid in wound recovery.
Limitations of Traditional Wound Care
- Adherence: Dry dressings, especially gauze, often stick to the wound bed, which can cause pain and re-injure the delicate new tissue upon removal.
- Traditional materials may not be suitable for all types of wounds, such as deep or heavily exuding wounds.
- They can lead to maceration if they trap too much moisture and are difficult to use for infected wounds.