[Experimental studies of new Polish hydrogel dressing materials HDR]

Recently the spectrum of dressings was enriched, incorporating the so-called hydrogel dressing, made by Geistlich Sons Ltd. and Byk Goldbin-Konstanz referred to as "Geliperm". In Poland, HDR hydrogel dressings' technology was launched by Institute of Radiative Technology, Lódź+ Polytechnic. This type of dressing is obtained by radiative cross-linking of hydrophilic polymers. The experimental studies of the new Polish hydrogel materials were accomplished at the Department of Experimental Surgery and Biomaterials Research, the Chair of traumatologic Surgery, Medical Academy of Wrocław. These studies concerned three kinds of hydrogel dressings, different in composition and irradiation conditions. HDR-1 10% of polyvinylpyrrolidone+, 1.5% of agar, 1.5% of polyethylene glycol 300, irradiated with 30 kGy (gamma radiation of 60Co); HDR-1 with neomycin--formula as above plus neomycin sulfate (2.5%); HDR-2 6% of polyvinylpyrrolidone++, 1% of agar, 1.5% of polyethylene glycol 300, irradiated with 25-27 kGy (gamma radiation of 60Co). The usable properties of the HDR dressings approximate those of the West German products. Owing to the lab tests, biological and in vitro examinations we had performed, it was possible to state that aqueous extracts of the hydrogel dressings subjected to assessment did'nt exhibit hemolytical or toxic activities in cellular tests, at the same time lacking an irritating effect. They cause a minimal tissular reaction and accelerate the process of healing.