Conclusions
TheraGauze™ represents the first of what will probably be a new wave of “Smart Dressings”,
which are capable of being tuned to either dispense or extract moisture from a wound, and which
can act simultaneously to control moisture to a different extent in adjacent sites, even within the
same wound bed. Furthermore, because the absorptive character of the dressing occurs primarily
within the proprietary polymer component, it can act to deliver a specific quantity of medication,
or can be used to absorb a measured amount of fluid discharged from a wound.
Historically, certain types of wounds have been difficult to close due to a mixture of factors. Some
areas are too wet, while other areas are too dry. Sometimes, it is difficult to even gauge what the
complication is that prevents wound closure. TheraGauze™ brings another tool to clinicians, which
allows them to dispense or absorb wound exudate or medication precisely where it is needed. The
SMRT dressing acts to normalize moisture at all points of contact with the wound.
We have also observed that maintenance of this uniform fluid layer has the added benefit of
reducing pain associated with some types of wounds. The SMRT polymer in TheraGauze™ acts to
eliminate the adherence of dressings to the wound bed, so that we can move away from the use
of occlusive petroleum products found in more traditional non-adherent wound dressings.
Based on our experience with TheraGauze™, we believe that we have a breakthrough technology
for the treatment of complicated wounds. Furthermore, as we begin to explore the benefits of
topical medication, and reduction of pain from this non-occlusive, and non-macerating dressing,
we anticipate that the applications will increase dramatically.