The Russell Chest Seal is a hydrogel-based dressing with a built-in low-profile valve designed to cover penetrating chest wounds. It allows air to escape from the pleural cavity without being drawn back in, helping to reduce the risk of further complications and support normal breathing.
 
Reliable Chest Seal with Low-Profile Valve for Effective Air Release
The Russell Chest Seal is a hydrogel-based dressing designed to manage penetrating chest wounds by allowing air to escape from the pleural cavity without being drawn back in. This helps to reduce the risk of lung collapse and supports lung re-inflation.
 Its integral low-profile valve is constructed from a thin yet durable material that responds to small pressure changes, opening and closing efficiently. The transparent valve design assists accurate placement over the wound, while the large base aperture and four peripheral openings allow both air and blood to pass through without obstructing the valve’s function. Even if several of these openings become blocked, the seal continues to operate effectively.
The hydrogel base provides strong adhesion, maintaining an airtight seal even on sweaty or hairy skin, and remains comfortable during extended use. Supplied in a pre-folded form, the dressing is compact and easy to store in medical kits. The valve’s low profile and flexible design make it practical in varied conditions, and its function can be felt even in low light.
At 20cm by 15cm, the Russell Chest Seal is one of the largest available, offering reliable coverage and ease of use in emergency care.
16 Benefits of the Russell Chest Seal
Hydrogel-based dressing with an integrated low-profile valve
Covers penetrating chest wounds while allowing air to escape from the pleural cavity without being drawn back in
Helps reduce the risk of complications and supports lung re-inflation
Patented hydrogel base provides strong, reliable adhesion
Adheres effectively to sweaty or hairy skin
Remains securely in place for up to 24 hours
Comfortable for prolonged use
Transparent valve mechanism allows accurate positioning
Valve opens and closes with minimal pressure changes
Large central aperture for quick, precise placement
Four peripheral apertures allow drainage of air and blood without blocking the valve
One of the largest chest seals available (20cm x 15cm)
Low-profile, flexible design for easy storage and application
Supplied pre-folded for compact storage in medical or first responder kits
Valve can be felt operating in low-light conditions
CE marked medical device
Who is the Russell Chest Seal for?
Designed for trained medical professionals, first responders, and emergency personnel who may need to manage penetrating chest wounds in pre-hospital or emergency settings.
Suitable for use by paramedics, ambulance crews, and emergency department staff as part of trauma management procedures.
Can be included in trauma kits, first aid kits, and emergency response equipment for use in both professional and field environments.
Intended for use on adults and is suitable for application on various skin types, including sweaty or hairy skin.
Ideal for emergency care teams who require a dependable, easy-to-apply chest seal that performs reliably in demanding or time-critical situations.
How to Use the Russell Chest Seal
Remove the Russell Chest Seal from its packaging.
Carefully unfold the pre-folded chest seal.
Peel off the clear backing to expose the adhesive hydrogel base.
Position the centre of the gauze directly over the penetrating chest wound.
Firmly press down on one side of the chest seal to ensure proper adhesion.
While maintaining pressure on the applied side, press down the other side of the seal to prevent shifting.
Double-check that the chest seal is securely adhered on all sides. 
Monitor the wound and valve function through the semi-transparent panel on the chest seal.