title: Laboratory evaluation of Drawtex Hydroconductive dressing with LevaFiber technology.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study was to assess absorption, sequestration and retention of microorganisms by Drawtex Hydroconductive dressing with LevaFiberTM technology.
  
  
  METHODS
  The absorption over time and the ability to sequester and retain bacteria were assessed in the laboratory using an in vitro model where known amounts of fluid and microorganisms were allowed to absorb and sequester over a 24 hour period. The reduction in numbers of microorganisms following sequestration was determined using standard plate counting methods. Retention of the organisms was visualised by scanning electron microscopy.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Drawtex was shown to absorb eight times its own weight in fluid over time and it showed a 90% reduction in bacterial numbers over a 24 hour period in sequestration experiments. Direct observation by scanning electron microscopy demonstrated bacterial retention in the dressing fibres.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Drawtex is a recent addition to the formulary for absorbent dressings available in the UK. It demonstrates excellent absorption properties, while maintaining integrity. In addition, it sequesters and retains microorganisms, which will help with removal of exudate and bioburden from the wound bed to help facilitate wound healing.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  This study was funded by an educational grant from Martindale Pharma, UK. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare with regard to the manuscript or its content.
authors.affiliation: Professor of Medical Microbiology, Head of Research Development, School of Research, Enterprise and Innovation, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK.
authors.forename: V
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Edwards-Jones
authors.affiliation: PhD, Senior Research Fellow, School of Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, UK.
authors.forename: V
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Vishnyakov
authors.affiliation: Clinical Director, TVRE Consulting, Stoke on Trent, UK.
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Spruce
mesh_terms: D000042:Absorption; D001458:Bandages; D005122:Exudates and Transudates; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D014945:Wound Healing; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000382:microbiology / Q000628:therapy*