Foams were one of the first 'modern' dressings to be used in wound management and became widely available in the mid-1970s for lightly, moderately or heavily exuding wounds. Foams offer advantages over traditional gauze dressings as they do not shed particles and can be left in place for several days without causing maceration.
Remove excess exudate and toxic components. Maintain high humidity at the wound/dressing interface. Permit gaseous exchange. Provide thermal insulation. Protect from secondary infection. Protect from particulate or toxic contamination. Allow removal without trauma at dressing changes.