Name of the Procedure:

Puraply or Puraply AM Application
Commonly known as Puraply
Technical term: Puraply AM, per square centimeter (HCPCS Code Q4172)

Summary

Puraply and Puraply AM are advanced wound care products used to manage and treat various types of skin wounds. These products serve as a biological barrier that can be applied to wounds to facilitate healing.

Purpose

Puraply is used to treat various types of skin wounds, including acute and chronic wounds such as ulcers, surgical wounds, and traumatic injuries. The goal is to promote healing by creating a stable wound environment, preventing infection, and supporting tissue regeneration.

Indications

• Chronic ulcers (venous, diabetic, or pressure ulcers)
• Acute surgical wounds
• Traumatic wounds
• Burns
• Any wound that is not healing satisfactorily with standard care

Preparation

• Patients might be advised to stop certain medications, like blood thinners, before the procedure.
• The wound area will be cleansed and prepared according to standard wound care protocols.
• Any existing wound dressings will be removed before application.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare provider will first cleanse the wound thoroughly.
2. Puraply or Puraply AM will then be cut to the appropriate size to cover the wound.
3. The material is placed directly onto the wound bed.
4. A secondary dressing may be applied to hold Puraply in place and keep the area moist.
5. The dressing is typically secured with a bandage or adhesive tape.

Tools and Equipment:

• Sterile scissors
• Cleansing solutions
• Secondary dressings and bandages

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Usually not required, unless the wound is in a particularly sensitive area.

Duration

The application process typically takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is commonly performed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, wound care centers, or even at home under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Personnel

• Wound care specialists
• Nurses
• Physicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection, though rare, can occur.
• Possible allergic reaction to the materials used.
• In rare cases, the wound might not respond to the treatment and could deteriorate.

Benefits

• Promotes faster and more efficient wound healing.
• Reduces the risk of infection.
• Can be used on various types of wounds, offering a versatile treatment option.
• Patients might observe improvement within days to weeks.

Recovery

• Patients should keep the wound dry and clean, following any specific instructions given by the healthcare provider.
• Dressing changes may be needed periodically.
• Regular follow-up appointments are often scheduled to monitor healing progress.

Alternatives

• Standard wound dressings (gauze, hydrocolloid)
• Other advanced wound care products like foam dressings, alginate dressings
• Negative pressure wound therapy

Pros and Cons:
Standard dressings are less expensive but might not provide the same level of protection and healing as Puraply.
Negative pressure wound therapy might be more effective for some wounds but is more complex and costly.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients might feel slight discomfort but generally no significant pain. After application, they might experience mild itching or irritation around the wound site. Pain management and comfort measures will be provided to minimize any discomfort, and patients will be instructed on how to care for their wound at home.