## Description

ConvaTec’s AQUACEL Ag+ Extra Hydrofiber Antimicrobial Wound Dressing (5 cm x 5 cm / 2 x 2 in) is a primary, antibiofilm dressing designed for wounds that are infected, at risk of infection, or where biofilm is suspected. It combines a dual‑layer Hydrofiber structure for strength with an Ag+ formulation that integrates ionic silver (1.2%), benzethonium chloride (BEC), and disodium EDTA to target biofilm and deliver broad‑spectrum antimicrobial activity.

### Key features and technology

- Dual layers of sodium carboxymethylcellulose (Hydrofiber) stitch‑bonded and reinforced with regenerated cellulose fiber for added strength.

- Impregnated with 1.2% ionic silver (Ag+) for sustained antimicrobial action.

- “More Than Silver” Ag+ antibiofilm technology enhanced with BEC (surfactant) and EDTA (chelating agent) to destabilize biofilm.

- Primary sheet dressing in the Extra variant for robust handling during application and removal.

### How it works

- Gels on contact with wound fluid to absorb and retain exudate, helping to minimize maceration.

- Sequesters bacteria and biofilm within the cohesive gel to reduce cross‑contamination risk.

- BEC and EDTA disrupt biofilm structure, exposing microorganisms to silver.

- Provides broad‑spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, yeasts, and moulds, including antibiotic‑resistant organisms.

- Conforms to the wound bed, supports a moist environment, aids autolytic debridement, and helps reduce dead space.

- Acts as an antimicrobial barrier to help protect the wound bed.

### Indications

- Primary dressing for wounds that are infected, at risk of infection, or where biofilm is suspected.

- Suitable for venous, arterial, and mixed leg ulcers; diabetic foot ulcers; pressure ulcers/injuries; surgical and traumatic wounds; malignant wounds; and partial‑thickness (second‑degree) burns.

### Application and wear

- Cleanse the wound before application.

- Overlap at least ~1 cm onto surrounding skin; for deep/cavity wounds, loosely fill up to ~80% to allow expansion.

- For dry wounds, moisten over the wound area with sterile saline and cover with a moisture‑retentive secondary dressing.

- Select an appropriate secondary dressing according to exudate level.

- Change as clinically indicated; may be worn for up to 7 days.

- On partial‑thickness burns, may remain in place for up to 14 days with reassessment.

### Contraindications and precautions

- Do not use in patients with known sensitivity to silver, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, disodium EDTA, or benzethonium chloride.

- Not compatible with petroleum‑ or oil‑based products.

- Sterile, single‑use device; do not reuse and do not use if the package is damaged or opened.

- Monitor for signs of irritation, maceration, hypergranulation, infection, or unexpected changes in wound color/odor.

- Use under the direction of a healthcare professional; limited data for prolonged or repeated use in children or neonates.

### Specifications

- Size: 5 cm x 5 cm (2 x 2 in)

- Type: Primary antimicrobial, antibiofilm Hydrofiber sheet dressing (Extra variant)

- Composition: Dual‑layer sodium CMC Hydrofiber, stitch‑bonded; reinforced with regenerated cellulose fiber

- Antimicrobials: 1.2% ionic silver (Ag+) with BEC and disodium EDTA

- Wear time: Up to 7 days; up to 14 days on partial‑thickness burns (with reassessment)

- Secondary dressing required

### Storage

- Store in a dry place at 10–25°C (50–77°F).