Examining the efficacy of silver and cadexomer iodine dressings in treating wounds compromised by bacterial burden: A review of the literature

Topical antimicrobial agents provide an opportunity to prevent the spread of bacterial burden beyond critical colonisation and local infection, aid in the swift and effective management of systemic infection, reduce excessive and prolonged use of antibiotic therapy for people living with chronic wounds [1, 2], and reduce the risk of developing bacterial resistance associated with the use of antibiotics. The role of topical antimicrobials is well established within the principles of wound bed preparation; however the selection of antimicrobial agents is vast. This paper explores evidence regarding the clinical and cost effectiveness of two commonly used topical antimicrobials; cadexomer iodine and silver dressings.