Beginning post-operative day 1 (POD 1), and extending
to POD 14 to 28 or longer, the appearance of the INTEGRA™
Matrix Wound Dressing will vary. The rate and progression
of the color change depends on the patient and rate of
healing. (Shown with optional INTEGRA™Bilayer Matrix Wound Dressing)
Generally, the color will change through a progression
from red to pink to orange/peach to vanilla.
The site must be inspected for darkened areas or white/gray
areas which may result from complications (see Complications
and Interventions for more info on how to recognize and
treat).
When INTEGRA™ Matrix
Wound Dressing is used in combination with INTEGRA™
Bilayer Matrix Wound Dressing as shown above,
the silicone layer of the Bilayer dressing is typically
ready for removal around POD 21 but may take longer. Signs
include:
- Site blanches to the touch and returns to an
orange/peachy or vanilla color upon release of light
finger pressure
- Silicone of INTEGRA™
Bilayer Matrix Wound Dressing wrinkles
and may begin to detach from the site. Granulation tissue
(deep red color and granular surface that bleeds easily)
has formed at seam lines.
