New Bandage to Help with Post-Device Implantation

Prevention of the formation of hematomas has been difficult for electrophysiologists and other professionals after the implantation of ambulatory cardiac monitors, especially those patients that use antiplatelet agents with cardiovascular diseases. In order to avoid the formation of a hematoma, great care must be taken after surgery to make sure the wound properly heals. Among post-procedural issues, a hematoma is seen as the most prevalent.

In many situations, patients that received standard pressure bandages to help avoid hematoma formations might experience allergic reactions to the adhesive found in bandages, tears in their skin, or even inadequately adherent bandages. Luckily, a new method has been created to prevent these issues from happening with patients that need bandaging after the implantation of ambulatory cardiac monitors. The strong adhesion of the bandage with the right amount of pressure applied to the post-surgical site, while also preventing tears in the skin and irritation, was discovered in this five-part process:

1. Sterilize the bandage and adhere it to the site of the incision.
2. Make sure the delicate skin is covered with clear bandages around the incision of the device pocket.
3. Over the sterilized bandage, take a stack of small gauze pads and place them right over the device.
4. Stretch a few strips of properly cut elastic adhesive bandages over the gauze pads, being sure these only adhere to the clear bandage so contact with the skin is avoided.
5. Using more clear bandages, fasten the sides of the elastic adhesive bandage.

The bond between the clear bandage and the elastic adhesive bandage is strong, which keeps it held in place without affecting the skin. Once the bandage is ready to be taken off, it is removed from the clear bandage and all layers will come off at once without causing any irritation or tears in the skin.

ReactDx is pleased to see those receiving heart monitors can better avoid hematomas. If you have any questions about our ambulatory cardiac monitors and services, please call ReactDx at 800-234-3278.