Biatain Alginate Dressings

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Biatain Alginate dressings from Coloplast are calcium alginate dressings for moderate to heavily exuding wounds of any size, shape, and depth. On contact with wound exudate, the alginate converts to a soft, cohesive gel that conforms to the wound bed and provides a moist healing environment. This collection includes both standard alginate and alginate with silver (Ag) for wounds that are infected or at risk of infection. Flat and rope formats are available.

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Biatain Alginate (standard) is composed of 85% alginate and 15% carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). The dressing has high structural integrity, which allows for one-piece removal with minimal pain and trauma. It can be cut to fit wounds of many sizes, shapes, and depths, making it recommended for cavity filling. The gel formation locks exudate inside the dressing, preventing leakage that can damage periwound skin. Unlike hydrofibre dressings, Biatain Alginate has a documented hemostatic effect, meaning it can assist in controlling minor bleeding in superficial wounds due to the release of calcium ions. Available in 3 flat sizes (5 x 5cm, 10 x 10cm, 15 x 15cm) and a 3 x 44cm rope for packing cavity wounds.

Biatain Alginate Ag contains an ionic silver complex in addition to the alginate and CMC composition. The silver is released in the presence of wound exudate, providing continuous antibacterial effect during the entire wear time of up to 7 days. It shares the same structural integrity, cavity filling capability, and hemostatic properties as the standard version. Available in the same 3 flat sizes and rope format.

Biatain Alginate dressings require a secondary dressing over top to hold them in place and manage moisture. They should not be used on dry or lightly exuding wounds, as the alginate needs moisture to gel and function properly. They should not be used to control heavy bleeding. They can be used under compression bandages and are not made with natural rubber latex.

For wounds that need a self-adhering foam dressing rather than an alginate, the standard Biatain Foam and Biatain Silicone lines are available in adhesive and non-adhesive formats. For heavily exuding wounds that need maximum absorption in a pad format, Biatain Super uses a hydrocapillary design. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance on dressing selection.

Finding your product: All 8 products are listed below - 4 standard alginate and 4 alginate with silver. You can sort by price or alphabetically using the controls above the product grid. If you need help choosing, call us at 1-888-738-3798.

Frequently Asked Questions ▾

What is the difference between Biatain Alginate and Biatain Alginate Ag?

Both use the same alginate and CMC base that gels on contact with wound fluid. Biatain Alginate Ag adds an ionic silver complex that releases silver ions into the wound bed for antimicrobial protection. Use the standard version for non-infected wounds and the Ag version for wounds that are infected or at risk of infection. Your healthcare provider can determine which is appropriate based on the wound assessment.

When should I use the rope format instead of the flat dressing?

The 3 x 44cm rope format is designed for packing cavity wounds, tunnelling wounds, and sinus tracts where a flat dressing cannot conform to the wound shape. The rope is gently placed into the wound cavity to fill the space and absorb exudate from within. It should be loosely packed rather than tightly compressed. The flat formats are used for surface wounds. Your healthcare provider will determine which format suits your wound.

Can Biatain Alginate dressings be cut to fit?

Yes. The structural integrity of the dressing allows it to be cut to fit wounds of many sizes and shapes. This makes it versatile for irregularly shaped wounds or areas where a standard square dressing does not provide adequate coverage. The dressing maintains its integrity after cutting and still allows for one-piece removal.

Do Biatain Alginate dressings need a secondary dressing?

Yes. Alginate dressings do not have an adhesive layer or waterproof backing, so they require a secondary dressing over top to hold them in place and manage moisture at the wound surface. Common secondary dressings include foam dressings, film dressings, or compression wrapping. Your healthcare provider can recommend an appropriate secondary dressing.

Can Biatain Alginate be used on dry or lightly exuding wounds?

No. Biatain Alginate dressings should not be used on dry or lightly exuding wounds. The alginate requires moisture from wound exudate to convert into a gel and function properly. On a dry wound, the dressing may adhere to the wound bed and cause pain or trauma at removal. For dry or low-exudate wounds, consider a hydrocolloid dressing like Comfeel or a thin foam like Biatain Silicone Lite instead.