Role of hydrocolloid dressing in preventing face pressure ulcers from non‐invasive ventilation and facilitating postoperative wound healing in maxillofacial surgery: A meta‐analysis

Abstract

Facial pressure ulcers from non‐invasive ventilation (NIV) and challenges in wound healing post‐maxillofacial surgery are significant concerns in clinical care. This meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of hydrocolloid dressings in these contexts. From a pool of 1135 articles, 8 studies met the inclusion criteria. Hydrocolloid dressings demonstrated a significant reduction in facial pressure ulcers for NIV patients, with lower REEDA scores 1‐week postapplication (standardized mean difference [SMD] = −16.7, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −24.26 to −9.15, p < 0.01). In maxillofacial surgery, patients treated with hydrocolloid dressings exhibited improved wound healing and reduced scar formation, evidenced by lower Manchester Scar Scale scores 3 months post‐surgery (SMD = −15.46, 95% CI: −20.28 to −10.64, p < 0.01). These findings suggest that hydrocolloid dressings are effective in both preventing NIV‐related facial pressure ulcers and enhancing wound healing in maxillofacial surgery.