The Sorbact Technology: A Physical Approach to Infection Control
Traditional antimicrobial dressings often rely on chemically active agents, like silver or iodine, to kill microbes in a wound. Sorbact dressings, developed by ABIGO Medical, pioneered a different, non-chemical method based on the principle of hydrophobic interaction. The surface of a Sorbact dressing is coated with a naturally-occurring fatty acid derivative called dialkylcarbamoyl chloride (DACC). This DACC coating makes the dressing's surface highly hydrophobic, or 'water-repelling'.
Crucially, many pathogenic microbes—including common wound bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Enterococcus species (VRE), as well as various fungi—are also naturally hydrophobic. This mutual hydrophobicity causes the microbes to be irresistibly attracted to and physically bind to the DACC-coated Sorbact fibers. With each dressing change, the bound microbes are lifted and removed from the wound bed, effectively reducing the bioburden. This physical process avoids the release of cytotoxic agents or debris from dead bacteria into the wound, which can slow down healing.
How the Sorbact Process Works
- Binding: The DACC-coated surface of the dressing has special hydrophobic properties. As the dressing makes direct contact with the wound surface, hydrophobic bacteria and fungi bind to the dressing fibers.
- Inhibiting: Once bound, the microbes are trapped, and their growth in the wound bed is inhibited. This occurs without releasing any active chemical agents, preventing the development of microbial resistance.
- Removing: At each dressing change, the dressing, and all the microorganisms and endotoxins bound to it, are physically removed from the wound. This reduction in microbial load supports the natural wound healing process.
Indications for Sorbact Dressing Use
Sorbact dressings are indicated for a wide variety of wound types that are contaminated, colonized, or infected. This includes both superficial and deep wounds, and those with varying levels of exudate. Common applications include:
- Chronic wounds such as venous leg ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, and pressure injuries
- Post-operative dehisced and surgical wounds, including for surgical site infection prevention
- Acute wounds like traumatic wounds, cuts, and lacerations
- Superficial-partial thickness burns
- Fungal infections in skin folds
- Wounds showing signs of infection, such as redness, increased pain, or delayed healing
Comparison: Sorbact vs. Traditional Antimicrobial Dressings
| Feature | Sorbact Dressing | Traditional Antimicrobial Dressings (e.g., silver) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Physical binding and removal of bacteria using hydrophobic interaction. | Chemical killing of bacteria by releasing antimicrobial agents. |
| Active Agents | None released into the wound bed. | Release active substances (e.g., silver ions) into the wound bed. |
| Resistance Risk | Negligible; development of microbial resistance is not expected due to the physical mechanism. | Higher risk of microbial resistance development with overuse or prolonged exposure. |
| Cytotoxicity | High cell compatibility; does not disrupt or damage healthy skin and cells. | Potential for cytotoxicity, which can hinder the natural wound healing process. |
| Allergies | Low risk of allergies. | Some patients may develop allergic reactions to the chemical components. |
| Use Duration | No known treatment time limitation. | Recommended for limited periods to minimize resistance risk and side effects. |
Product Variations and Application Guide
Sorbact is available in several forms to suit different clinical needs, including compresses, wound contact layers, ribbon gauze for deep wounds, foam dressings for absorption, and surgical dressings.
How to Use a Sorbact Dressing
- Preparation: Clean the wound according to standard practice. Do not use fatty creams, ointments, or strong antiseptics beforehand, as these can interfere with the hydrophobic binding.
- Application: Select the appropriate Sorbact product and size. Ensure the green, bacteria-binding surface makes direct contact with the entire wound bed. In deep wounds, use a swab or ribbon gauze, leaving a portion exposed for easy removal.
- Fixation: For heavily exuding wounds, apply a secondary absorbent dressing (like a foam or superabsorbent pad) over the Sorbact layer. Fixate with a tape or wrap. For dry or low-exudate wounds, a film dressing or gel can be used.
- Change Frequency: The dressing can typically be left in place for up to 7 days, depending on exudate levels and wound condition. In infected wounds, more frequent changes may be necessary. If the dressing adheres, moisten it with saline or water for gentle removal.
Conclusion
As a non-chemical, physical solution, Sorbact dressings represent a significant advancement in wound infection management. By effectively binding and removing hydrophobic microbes without releasing active agents, they offer a powerful tool for reducing bioburden, supporting natural wound healing, and circumventing the risks associated with antimicrobial resistance. Its range of product formats makes it versatile for a wide array of wound types, ensuring patient comfort and safety throughout the healing process. For healthcare professionals seeking a reliable alternative to traditional antimicrobial approaches, Sorbact provides a compelling, evidence-based solution. For further clinical evidence on Sorbact, you can review published studies and information on the official Sorbact website (e.g., https://sorbact.com/evidence/).
