this mepilex border flex foam dressing features proprietary flex technology that creates greater conformability by enabling a 360 stretch thanks to patent-pending y-cuts in the spreading and retention layers. this unique, five-layer, bordered foam dressing absorbs, channels, and traps exudate; allows for the tracking of exudate progress; keeps exudate away from the wound bed and prevents its re-entry (even under compression); and can handle both normal and viscous exudate. it is suitable for a wide range of exuding wounds such as pressure ulcers, leg and foot ulcers, and traumatic wounds such as skin tears and surgical wounds, and it can also be used on dry/necrotic wounds in combination with gels. this dressing can be left in place up to seven days, depending on the condition of the wound and surrounding skin, or as indicated by accepted clinical practice.