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This information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical treatment. You should speak to your physician or make an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about this information or your medical condition. en Español | Complete disclaimer

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Silverlon Dressing

Silverlon is a flexible fabric that protects wounds and helps to prevent infection.

It must be kept damp at all times, not wet. Tap water, sterile water, or distilled water should be used. Do not use well water or saline solution. A spray bottle may be used, or run the Silverlon under water and pat off excess water with a clean towel.

Silverlon should be removed once a day during your bath or shower.

• Wash your hands with soap and water.

• Wash your wound well with soap and warm water. Use a clean washcloth to carefully remove drainage as needed.

• Wash the Silverlon off with water, removing all of the old drainage.

• You may then put back on the Silverlon dressing, and cover with a clean, new gauze.

If your dressing is difficult to remove, soak it in water for 5- 15 minutes or in the shower.

In special cases, you may be instructed to leave the Silverlon Dressing on until your next clinic appointment. You must still keep it moist at all times.

Remove the Silverlon if you are having an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI procedure.

Call the Trauma Burn Clinic at 734-936-9669 if you have any of the following signs or symptoms of infection:

• Fever higher than 101.5 degrees

• Green , discolored, or excess drainage

• Increased pain

• Redness around the wound

• Increased swelling, or other changes in wound appearance

• Foul smell from wounds

Information provided by Britt Elder, RN, BSN - UMHS Trauma Burn Center, July 2005