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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Is The Purpose Of Using Occlusive Petrolatum Strips?

Hello Dc. My question is for what do you use the Gauze strip of Occlusive Petrolatum? I got my big right Toe amputated (cut off) and I got to change the dressing every days since the surgery that was done two weeks ago, and I want to know if I can use at least once the petrolatum gauze? want to use something that could make my surgery a little more comfortable.
Wed, 26 Jul 2017
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for the query. I understand your concern.
Occlusive strips are meant to make air/ water tight dressing & avoid contamination from outside & increase risk of infection & also absorb oozing secretions from the wound o keep it clean.
Petroleum strips do not have the property to absorb the exudates & delay the healing process.But yes- when wound has gone clean & dry petroleum gauze strips can help in keeping the wound smooth & give soothing feel to patient... BUT applying unsterile petroleum would increase chance of infection & delay healing.
Thanks
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What Is The Purpose Of Using Occlusive Petrolatum Strips?

Hi, Thanks for the query. I understand your concern. Occlusive strips are meant to make air/ water tight dressing & avoid contamination from outside & increase risk of infection & also absorb oozing secretions from the wound o keep it clean. Petroleum strips do not have the property to absorb the exudates & delay the healing process.But yes- when wound has gone clean & dry petroleum gauze strips can help in keeping the wound smooth & give soothing feel to patient... BUT applying unsterile petroleum would increase chance of infection & delay healing. Thanks