DRESS-X v1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Dressing-related experiences and surgical site self-care in hip and knee replacement: an observational cohort study (DRESS-X)
IRAS ID
362237
Contact name
Thomas Wainwright
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Bournemouth University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Surgical wound complications remain a concern following orthopaedic surgery, with issues such as surgical site infection, wound dehiscence, blistering, hypergranulation, peri-wound maceration, scarring, and adhesive-related skin injury impacting recovery. These complications can cause discomfort, delay healing, increase the risk of infection, and lead to additional healthcare visits or readmissions, adding to patient and system burden.
In enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathways for total hip and knee replacement, patients are discharged earlier, placing greater emphasis on effective post-discharge wound care and self-management. Modern advanced dressings are designed for extended wear, comfort, and protection, but evidence is limited on their real-world performance, durability, and patient experience. Likewise, the impact of patient education resources and adherence to wound care guidance remains under-explored.
The DRESS-X study is a prospective observational cohort study recruiting 100 patients undergoing routine primary total hip or knee replacement at Nuffield Health Hospital, Bournemouth. Following consent before surgery, participants will receive their standard-care advanced dressing postoperatively. At discharge, dressings will be assessed and re-applied if required, and wound care education provided.
Follow-up will occur at 7 days (telephone), 12 days (staple/suture removal), 6 weeks, and 3 months post-surgery. Data collection includes the ISWCAP (International Surgical Wound Complications Advisory Panel) patient self-care checklist, the Bluebelle Wound Healing Questionnaire, and a Dressing Comfort and Usability Survey, alongside clinical assessments of wound healing and documentation of any wound-related complications.
The primary objective is to evaluate patient adherence to the ISWCAP self-care checklist. Secondary objectives are to assess dressing performance and comfort, the adequacy of wound care education, and the incidence and types of wound complications within 3 months. The findings will inform best practice for wound care in hip and knee replacement ERAS pathways, optimising healing outcomes and enhancing patient self-management.REC name
North West - Haydock Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/NW/0326
Date of REC Opinion
29 Oct 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion