(C-85) Investigating the Durability and Compression of a Novel Hard-Shell Dressing Device as an Alternative to Additional Dressing Pads for Wound Dressings

Introduction:: Introduction: This study evaluates the potential effectiveness of a novel 3D-printed biocompatible nylon hard dressing device designed to provide wound compression for medical settings. Traditional wound dressings often require multiple layers, including primary dressings and additional dressing pads to provide sufficient pressure for blood coagulation. The research investigates the magnitude of compressive force exerted by the novel device when applied to simulated skin and its ability to provide better compression due its rigid material and higher tensile modulus compared to more elastic dressing materials. The study compares the compressive force of the hard dressing device with commonly used gauze dressings. Force sensors are used to capture and quantify the applied pressure. The results demonstrate that the novel hard dressing device exhibits a greater natural compressive force than gauze pads when compared using similar dressing configurations, contributing valuable insights into the mechanical characteristics of supportive wound care devices and aiding in the development of more effective medical dressings.

Materials and Methods:: Materials and Methods: A novel hard dressing device is developed, featuring wings for leverage and 3D-printed using biocompatible nylon material. Four configurations of the device of varying thicknesses and wing lengths are investigated. Compressive flexure testing is performed using a motorized tensile test stand and calibrated force gauge to test the material integrity under stress. The peak flexural compression force for each thickness is recorded and the device under test is visually inspected for deformation or damage. In addition, a tensile test setup is used to determine the maximum compression force the device can withstand. A comparative analysis is conducted between the novel hard dressing device and a folded commercial gauze pad, applied to a skin model with the same height, utilizing a force-sensitive resistor and Arduino-based measurement system.

Results, Discussions, and Conclusions::

Results: The compressive flexure testing demonstrates that the hard dressing device exhibits shape-memory characteristics and returns to its normal state after compression. The peak compression force varies across the different configurations of the device. The maximum compression force the device can withstand was measured to be 467 N (105 lbf) and it maintains its shape and integrity even under such high forces. The comparative analysis between commercially available gauze pads used to provide compression over wounds reveals that the novel hard dressing device is able to maintain a higher natural compression force compared to the gauze pad, except for the thinnest configuration.

Discussion: The research findings indicate that the novel hard dressing device provides superior natural compression when applied to wound dressings compared to gauze pads. The device demonstrates shape-memory characteristics and can withstand high compression forces. This suggests its potential superiority over traditional compression dressings in inducing coagulation and advancing wound care practices. Further research and clinical evaluations are needed to validate these findings and explore practical applications of the hard dressing device in real-world scenarios.

Conclusions: The study highlights the durability, design advantages, and cost-effectiveness of the hard dressing device. Its stability and even distribution of force may make it an attractive product for medical use. The results support the use of the device for effective compression in wound management and call for additional research to standardize wound dressing practices and explore the benefits of rigid compression devices.

Acknowledgements (Optional): :

The author would like to acknowledge Locke White for their invaluable contributions to this research study. The investigation and study described in this paper were performed on behalf of Locke White in accordance with their vision and guidance.

Locke, as the inventor of the novel suture compression device studied in this paper, played a critical role in formulating the research objectives and providing generous support and provision of necessary resources, which facilitated the execution of this research project.

References (Optional): :

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