(CS-066) Elastomeric Skin Protectant Use for Periwound Skin Protection in Highly Exudative Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Friday, April 10, 2026

Introduction: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) can be difficult to manage. Additionally, in some patients, high levels of wound exudate can further complicate wound healing due to periwound skin breakdown, irritation, or maceration.¹ Typical wound care for highly exudating DFUs includes highly absorbent dressings, periwound skin protectants, and frequent dressing changes.² Traditional skin protectants include petrolatum, zinc oxide pastes/ointments, and film barriers.³ An elastomeric skin protectant* offers long-lasting film-based periwound skin protection that can be applied to delicate periwound skin to help protect against maceration.

Methods: All DFUs underwent sharp debridement followed by a 5 to 10-minute soak with a hypochlorous acid wound cleanser. The wound and periwound skin were gently wiped dry and an elastomeric skin protectant was applied to the periwound skin. Silver-collagen or iodine impregnated dressings were used along with gauze or foam-based secondary dressings. Dressing changes ranged from every day to twice a week. The skin protectant was reapplied once per week for 3 patients and twice a week for 1 patient. Wound healing and periwound skin condition were monitored at each dressing change. Off-loading was provided by a custom orthopedic medical shoe.

Results:

Four patients with highly exudating DFUs were managed. Patient ages ranged between 38 and 77 years old. Common comorbidities included type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, venous insufficiency, and hypertension. The development of granulation tissue was observed in all 4 wounds. Periwound skin maceration was resolved in all patients without further reoccurrence.

Discussion: In these 4 patients, use of the elastomeric skin protectant along with wound dressings resulted in granulation tissue development and improved periwound skin condition.