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1. What is ActivHeal PHMB Foam?

ActivHeal PHMB Foam is an advanced antimicrobial foam dressing used to support wound healing. It contains PHMB, which is an effective antiseptic that helps reduce bacteria in wounds and lowers the risk of infection. The dressing absorbs and retains exudate, protects surrounding skin and supports faster wound progression.

2. Have clinical evaluations been done to support the effectiveness of ActivHeal PHMB in wound care?

Yes. 11 clinical studies (incorporating the experience of 179 patients), indicate that the ActivHeal® PHMB Foam dressing range is effective at treating infected wounds. Read the product evaluation here.

3. What makes PHMB different from other antimicrobial options?

PHMB targets a broad range of microorganisms, including antibiotic resistant bacteria. It disrupts bacterial cell walls and helps prevent the growth of biofilm, which is a common barrier to healing in chronic wounds. PHMB is widely used in global wound care because it supports antimicrobial stewardship and avoids unnecessary use of topical antibiotics.

4. How does the dressing help with infection control?

Multiple clinical evaluations show that ActivHeal PHMB Foam reduces signs and symptoms of wound infection. In a large multicentre evaluation, 92 percent of wounds were free of infection signs after six weeks of treatment. Clinicians also reported improvements in wound heat, erythema, discharge and patient comfort.

5. How well does ActivHeal PHMB Foam manage wound exudate?

The dressing is designed for moderate to heavy exuding wounds. It absorbs and retains fluid, reduces the risk of maceration and protects fragile periwound skin. More than 95 percent of clinicians in a case series reported being satisfied with exudate management.

6. What kinds of wounds is it suitable for?

ActivHeal PHMB Foam can be used for a wide range of acute and chronic wounds. These include venous leg ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, pressure injuries, burns, postoperative surgical wounds and wounds with moderate to heavy exudate. It is also suitable for wounds with fragile or sensitive skin, especially when using the silicone border version.

7. Does it help wounds progress faster?

Yes. Clinical evaluations consistently report reductions in wound size, slough and devitalised tissue. In a 119 patient study, the median wound area decreased from 14.8 cm² to 2.6 cm² over six weeks of treatment. There was also an increase in granulation and epithelial tissue, which are key markers of wound progression.

8. Does ActivHeal PHMB Foam help reduce patient pain?

Yes. In clinical studies, patient pain scores reduced significantly while using ActivHeal PHMB Foam. One study showed a reduction in median pain score from 5 to 0 over a six week period. Patients also reported that the dressing was comfortable and less traumatic to change.

9. Is it more cost effective than other antimicrobial dressings?

In many cases, yes. ActivHeal PHMB Foam is more affordable than silver based or iodine based antimicrobial foams. Because the dressing manages exudate effectively and supports faster wound progression, many patients require fewer dressing changes. This can lead to considerable cost savings for clinics, hospitals home care providers and aged care facilities.

10. Is there evidence from real cases?

Yes. Case studies show consistent improvements across a wide range of wound types. Examples include venous leg ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers and surgical wounds. Improvements reported include reduced slough, reduced infection indicators, healthier periwound skin and faster healing. These outcomes match the clinical evidence from the broader evaluations.

11. Why is this dressing important for the New Zealand market?

Chronic wounds are increasing in New Zealand as our population ages and rates of diabetes rise. Many clinics are also dealing with higher consumable costs and pressure to deliver better outcomes with limited resources. ActivHeal PHMB Foam brings an effective, affordable and evidence based alternative to the local wound care market.

12. How can I try ActivHeal PHMB Foam in my practice?

Capes Medical is the exclusive supplier of ActivHeal in New Zealand. We offer a no obligation clinical evaluation for wound care teams, hospitals, GP practices, district nursing teams and aged care providers.
 

If you want to experience ActivHeal PHMB Foam in your practice, contact us to arrange an on-site evaluation and clinical support.