When you use PolyMem Silver on a wound, moisture and fluids in the wound bed are absorbed into the dressing, releasing silver ions, which protect the dressing from microbial contamination.
In addition to silver, the PolyMem Silver membrane contains a clinically proven non-ionic, non-toxic, tissue-friendly cleansing agent that helps loosen necrotic tissue, slough and other debris. The hydrophilic polyurethane membrane matrix, containing a starch co-polymer, draws fluid and debris from the wound bed and swells into a non-adherent gel while providing super absorbance of fluids. As the exudate is being absorbed, the membrane matrix expands to fill and conform to wounds. Additionally, glycerol (also known as glycerin) help ensure non-adherence to the wound bed so that the dressing or filler can be removed without disturbing the wound bed. Glycerol also helps control odor while softening non-viable tissue. Except for the cavity filler, the membrane is also covered by a semi-permeable continuous film backing which is optimized for oxygen and moisture vapor permeability and as a barrier to liquids.
PolyMem Silver can be used instead of other silver containing dressings because the dressings support moist wound healing while providing a continuous silver reservoir.
