Randomised clinical trial comparing Hydrofiber and alginate dressings post-hip replacement

Objective: To compare the performance of Hydrofiber and alginate dressings used in the treatment of primary hip arthroplasty wounds. Method: Patients were randomised into one of two groups, receiving either a Hydrofiber or an alginate dressing. Outcome measures, assessed by daily observations, included skin damage (erythema, blisters and skin injuries) and the dressing's ability to handle exudates. Photos of the dressing and the skin area around wounds were taken. Patients noted skin problems, discomfort at mobilisation and pain at dressing removal. Results: In the alginate group, there were fewer blisters in the wound area compared with the Hydrofiber group (7% versus 18%, p=0.03). During dressing removal, fewer patients in the alginate group reported pain than patients in the Hydrofiber group (2.1% versus 15%, p=0.01). Conclusion: We recommend the use of both dressings following total hip arthroplasty, although the alginate would be our first choice, as we found fewer blisters when using alginate dressings as opposed to Hydrofiber dressings. Conflict of interest: None.