Spacer Fabrics – A Potential Tool in the Prevention of Chronic Wounds

Abstract

Spacer fabrics are special textiles that offer designed qualities for pressure relief as well as regulation of heat and moisture. Investigations of the physical properties of these textiles demonstrate favourable qualities for their potential use in the medical field. The application of spacer fabrics for the prevention of chronic wounds is just beginning. However, typical fields of application are primary prevention of pressure sores in the operation room, secondary prevention of pressure sores for wheelchair drivers and the prevention of plantar ulcers in patients with the diabetic foot syndrome. Spacer-fabric-based bandages seem to be useful in oedema treatment in cases of chronic venous insufficiency and chronic lymphatic insufficiency.