Fig. 10

Comparing the relative permeability of dressings. Schematic representation of the different degrees of permeability a wound dressing contains. (Top, blue) Depiction of an occlusive or non-permeable dressing that is most commonly used as a superficial or outermost layer. Occlusive dressings prevent the movement of fluids, both gas and liquids, as well as cells and bacteria. (Middle, green) Depiction of a semi-permeable or semi-occlusive dressing that permits the movement of gases and water vapor (dashed black arrow) but typically limits the movement of liquids to variable degrees depending on the dressing. Semi-permeable dressings prevent the movement of cells and bacteria. (Bottom, black) Permeable or non-occlusive dressings are often depicted as foam or foam-like materials that are absorbent in nature and allow the movement of fluids, both gas and liquid, in addition to cells and bacteria. Oxygen molecules depicted as small blue circles. Carbon dioxide molecules depicted as small purple circles. Bacteria depicted as green organisms. Water is depicted as larger blue circles. Black arrows depict movement through the dressing material. Thicker arrows depict ability to evaporate into ambient environment. Red arrow accompanied by red “X” depicts lack of transport through material. Black-dashed arrow depicts that liquid water does not transport but water vapor still can. Created and adapted using www.biorender.com software