[Modern wound dressings for the therapy of chronic wounds]

The incidence of chronic wounds is increasing in developed Western countries. There are many causes for chronic or non-healing wounds. A multidisciplinary diagnostic approach and attention to underlying disorders are essential. A modern, moist, and phase adapted wound therapy is also essential. Modern wound dressings include activated charcoal, alginates, hyaluronic acid, hydrofibers, hydrogels, hydrocolloids, impregnated gauze, collagen, moist methods, proteolytic enzymes, foams, semipermeable membranes and silver dressings. Because of the lack of comparative investigations the phase-adapted use of wound dressings is still empiric. Application of modern wound dressings may help to create an optimized wound milieu and accelerate healing. Treatment of the underlying causes is an absolute requirement for long-term complete healing.