Xeroform is a sterile, non-adherent dressing used primarily in wound care management. It is composed of a fine mesh gauze impregnated with 3% bismuth tribromophenate, a compound with mild antiseptic and deodorizing properties. The base is often made from petrolatum (petroleum jelly), which keeps the wound moist and promotes healing.
Xeroform dressings are commonly used on surgical incisions, skin grafts, donor sites, abrasions, and minor burns. Its key advantages are its ability to maintain a moist wound environment, reduce pain during dressing changes, and prevent sticking to healing tissue.
How Xeroform Works: Composition and Mechanism
Xeroform functions by providing a protective barrier and an environment conducive to moist wound healing, a clinically proven strategy for faster recovery.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
Petrolatum Base: Prevents the dressing from sticking to the wound and retains moisture, which accelerates epithelialization.
Bismuth Tribromophenate (3%): Offers antimicrobial and mild antiseptic properties, helping to reduce the risk of infection.
Mesh Gauze Structure: Allows for breathability while protecting the wound from external contamination.
Moist Wound Healing Principle
Xeroform aligns with the moist wound healing paradigm, which contrasts with the older “dry healing” belief. Keeping wounds moist has been shown to reduce scab formation, speed up cellular migration, and improve cosmetic outcomes.
Odor Control and Comfort
The presence of bismuth tribromophenate also provides deodorizing effects, making Xeroform especially useful for malodorous wounds or sensitive areas where patient comfort is essential.
Common Clinical Uses of Xeroform Dressings
Xeroform is versatile and widely applicable in both hospital settings and home care environments. Here are the most frequent medical scenarios where Xeroform is recommended.
Post-Surgical Incisions
After surgeries, Xeroform is often applied to closed incisions to protect the site from bacterial invasion while maintaining hydration to aid healing.
Skin Grafts and Donor Sites
Because of its non-adherent nature, Xeroform is ideal for use on grafted areas, where trauma from dressing removal must be minimized to preserve graft success.
Minor Burns, Lacerations, and Abrasions
Xeroform offers both protection and pain relief for first-degree and superficial second-degree burns. It helps prevent drying out and reduces irritation, especially in pediatric and geriatric care.
Benefits and Limitations of Xeroform
Xeroform is a trusted dressing in wound care, but it’s important to understand its strengths and where it may not be the best option.
Benefits of Xeroform
Non-Adherent: Minimizes pain and tissue damage during dressing changes.
Antimicrobial Properties: Bismuth offers mild protection against bacterial growth.
Promotes Moist Healing: Ideal for wounds that benefit from hydration.
Easy to Apply and Remove: No specialized equipment needed.
Available in Various Sizes: Flexible options for different wound shapes and areas.
Potential Drawbacks
May Be Too Occlusive: For heavily exudating wounds, Xeroform may trap too much moisture and cause maceration.
Minimal Absorption: Does not absorb significant wound drainage—often needs a secondary absorbent dressing.
Staining and Residue: Bismuth can leave a yellowish stain, and petrolatum may feel greasy to some users.
Not for Infected Wounds: While it offers mild antimicrobial benefits, it’s not sufficient as the sole treatment for active infections.
When Not to Use Xeroform
Avoid use on wounds requiring high drainage management or in cases where close monitoring of the wound bed is necessary, as Xeroform may obscure visibility.
Best Practices for Applying and Changing Xeroform Dressings
Proper application and management of Xeroform is crucial for maximizing its effectiveness and preventing complications.
How to Apply Xeroform
Clean the wound with a sterile saline or prescribed wound cleanser.
Gently pat dry the surrounding skin while keeping the wound slightly moist.
Place the Xeroform dressing directly over the wound site.
Secure with secondary dressing, such as gauze or a foam pad, to manage any exudate and hold it in place.
Frequency of Dressing Changes
Depending on wound condition, Xeroform may be changed every 1 to 3 days or when saturation occurs. Some low-exudate wounds may go longer between changes under clinical supervision.
Monitoring the Wound
Always monitor for signs of:
Infection (increased redness, warmth, swelling, or pus)
Maceration (white, overly soft tissue around the wound)
Allergic reaction (rash, itching, or irritation)
In such cases, discontinue use and consult a medical professional immediately.
Conclusion: Is Xeroform Right for Your Wound Care Needs?
Xeroform remains a go-to choice for many healthcare providers because of its simplicity, effectiveness, and patient comfort. While it is not suitable for all wound types—especially those with heavy exudate or deep infections—it excels in treating clean, shallow, or surgically managed wounds.
If you’re a caregiver or patient managing wound recovery at home, Xeroform can be a reliable part of your medical supplies. Just be sure to follow medical guidance, observe wound progression, and combine it with appropriate secondary dressings when necessary.
