Superabsorbent polymer (SAP) dressings in compression therapy for lower-limb wounds

Hard-to-heal lower-limb wounds, such as venous leg ulcers and lymphoedema-related wounds, pose major clinical and financial challenges, impacting quality of life and costing the NHS billions annually. Alongside addressing underlying comorbidities, compression therapy remains the cornerstone of management, promoting healing by reducing venous hypertension and oedema. Effective exudate control is essential. Superabsorbent polymer (SAP) dressings, such as Hartmann's Zetuvit Plus Superabsorber and RespoSorb, offer high absorbency, a reduction in wound inhibitor (such as matrix metalloproteinases and bacteria) and patient comfort under compression. By reducing dressing changes, supporting shared care and enhancing wellbeing, SAP dressings improve clinical and economic outcomes, reflecting a shift toward holistic, patient-centred wound care that values dignity, independence and quality of life alongside healing.