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WOUND MANAGEMENT
SUMMER 2011 ISSUE
EQUINE MATTERS
6
Bandaging is therefore beneficial for the
following reasons:
l
The wound is protected from further
contamination.
l
The pressure reduces swelling.
l
Discharge from the wound is absorbed.
l
Bandages may immobilise the region,
reducing trauma.
A layered approach is used, starting at the
wound surface.
BandagingWounds...
The main aim of
bandaging a wound
is to create the optimum
environment for rapid wound healing.
Veterinary Surgeon
Sarah Smyth
XLVets Practice
Wensum Valley Veterinary
Surgeons, Norfolk
Sarah Smyth BVetMed MRCVS
, Wensum Valley Veterinary Surgeons
Topical gels, e.g. Intrasite, although not
antiseptics, promote the optimum
environment for healing of the wound.
Alternatively, topical preparations, e.g.
manuka honey (Activon) provide antiseptic
activity as well as promoting wound healing.
These preparations should be covered by
a sterile non-stick dressing e.g. Melolin.
1. Wound dressing and topical
preparations
The final bandage should apply even
pressure over the limb. The frequency of
changes of the bandage is dependent on
the volume of discharge and the environment
in which the horse is kept. The bandage
should be kept dry and minimal movement
of the limb should be encouraged in order
to promote rapid healing and help prevent
over-production of granulation tissue
(proud flesh).
Repeat the cotton wool and gauze layer if
the wound is producing a large volume of
discharge or the limb requires extra support.
The top and bottom of the bandage may
require extra adhesive bandage to prevent
the bandage from slipping.
4. Fix the cotton wool in place with
gauze bandage, under tension,
applying an even pressure across
the entire bandage.
5. Cover the gauze bandage with
self-adhesive vet bandage (e.g.
Co-plus or Vetrap).
2. Apply a synthetic padded dressing
to hold wound dressing in place.
3. Apply 2-3 layers of rolled cotton
wool to the limb, for padding and
further protection.
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