Description

ConvaTec’s AQUACEL Ag+ Extra Hydrofiber Antimicrobial Wound Dressing (5 cm x 5 cm / 2 x 2 in) is a primary, antibiofilm dressing designed for wounds that are infected, at risk of infection, or where biofilm is suspected. It combines a dual‑layer Hydrofiber structure for strength with an Ag+ formulation that integrates ionic silver (1.2%), benzethonium chloride (BEC), and disodium EDTA to target biofilm and deliver broad‑spectrum antimicrobial activity.

Key features and technology

• Dual layers of sodium carboxymethylcellulose (Hydrofiber) stitch‑bonded and reinforced with regenerated cellulose fiber for added strength.
• Impregnated with 1.2% ionic silver (Ag+) for sustained antimicrobial action.
• “More Than Silver” Ag+ antibiofilm technology enhanced with BEC (surfactant) and EDTA (chelating agent) to destabilize biofilm.
• Primary sheet dressing in the Extra variant for robust handling during application and removal.

How it works

• Gels on contact with wound fluid to absorb and retain exudate, helping to minimize maceration.
• Sequesters bacteria and biofilm within the cohesive gel to reduce cross‑contamination risk.
• BEC and EDTA disrupt biofilm structure, exposing microorganisms to silver.
• Provides broad‑spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, yeasts, and moulds, including antibiotic‑resistant organisms.
• Conforms to the wound bed, supports a moist environment, aids autolytic debridement, and helps reduce dead space.
• Acts as an antimicrobial barrier to help protect the wound bed.

Indications

• Primary dressing for wounds that are infected, at risk of infection, or where biofilm is suspected.
• Suitable for venous, arterial, and mixed leg ulcers; diabetic foot ulcers; pressure ulcers/injuries; surgical and traumatic wounds; malignant wounds; and partial‑thickness (second‑degree) burns.

Application and wear

• Cleanse the wound before application.
• Overlap at least ~1 cm onto surrounding skin; for deep/cavity wounds, loosely fill up to ~80% to allow expansion.
• For dry wounds, moisten over the wound area with sterile saline and cover with a moisture‑retentive secondary dressing.
• Select an appropriate secondary dressing according to exudate level.
• Change as clinically indicated; may be worn for up to 7 days.
• On partial‑thickness burns, may remain in place for up to 14 days with reassessment.

Contraindications and precautions

• Do not use in patients with known sensitivity to silver, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, disodium EDTA, or benzethonium chloride.
• Not compatible with petroleum‑ or oil‑based products.
• Sterile, single‑use device; do not reuse and do not use if the package is damaged or opened.
• Monitor for signs of irritation, maceration, hypergranulation, infection, or unexpected changes in wound color/odor.
• Use under the direction of a healthcare professional; limited data for prolonged or repeated use in children or neonates.

Specifications

• Size: 5 cm x 5 cm (2 x 2 in)
• Type: Primary antimicrobial, antibiofilm Hydrofiber sheet dressing (Extra variant)
• Composition: Dual‑layer sodium CMC Hydrofiber, stitch‑bonded; reinforced with regenerated cellulose fiber
• Antimicrobials: 1.2% ionic silver (Ag+) with BEC and disodium EDTA
• Wear time: Up to 7 days; up to 14 days on partial‑thickness burns (with reassessment)
• Secondary dressing required

Storage

• Store in a dry place at 10–25°C (50–77°F).