Duoderm is used for the protection and healing of various type of wounds. Its hydrocolloid base helps wounds to stay free from bacteria and also keeps them moist. The Duoderm dressing works on open-type wounds and those containing drainage. Wounds that produce foul odors and redness need a doctor's evaluation for proper treatment.
Bedsores
Bedsores that occur on the coccyx area can benefit from treatment with Duoderm. A stage II bedsore, which includes the dermis and epidermis of the skin, receives this type of wound protection. A thicker type of Duoderm may be used for these wounds. The thin form of Duoderm is transparent while the thicker type dressing is not, ConvaTec USA reports.
Pressure Areas on Body
Wound sufferers may use the transparent form of Duoderm dressing for pressure wounds that occur on different parts of the body such as the bony prominence areas of the elbows, knees, ankles and heels. When any of these bony areas become reddened but not open, a Duoderm dressing can protect it while it heals. A nurse can assess and monitor the type of Duoderm used.
Surgical Areas
Surgeons may use Duoderm to cover surgical wounds to protect the area and keep it free from bacteria. Duoderm protects the wound by not preventing friction to the area. Wart and lesion removal from the skin may produce an open area from surgery. This requires a dressing to protect the area between doctor visits.
Burns
Duoderm covers and protects burn areas until healing has occurred. The dressings keep the areas moist and the hydrocolloid base helps the burn to heal. If a skin graft is necessary to help heal the burn area, Duoderm may be used to cover the donor area, protecting it and facilitating healing. A 1988 study by L. Donati and M. Vigano showed that Duoderm allowed for more rapid healing of skin graft donor sites.
