What Is Surgical Tape? Types, Materials, and Clinical Functions

Introduction

Surgical tape is one of the most widely used medical consumables in hospitals and clinical settings. While it may appear simple, the choice of surgical tape plays a critical role in wound care, device fixation, infection control, and patient comfort.

Understanding what surgical tape is, how it differs by material, and how each type functions clinically helps healthcare professionals and procurement teams select the most appropriate option for different medical scenarios.

This article provides a clear, clinical overview of surgical tape types, materials, and real-world medical applications.

What Is Surgical Tape?

Surgical tape is a medical-grade adhesive tape designed to secure dressings, medical devices, and tubing to the skin during clinical care. Unlike general-purpose adhesive tapes, surgical tape is engineered to balance:

• Adhesion strength
• Skin compatibility
• Breathability
• Ease of removal

In healthcare environments, surgical tape is used across short-term and long-term applications, from IV fixation to post-operative wound support.

Learn more about available surgical tape solutions for hospital and clinical use on our Surgical Tape category page.

Common Types of Surgical Tape

Surgical tape is classified primarily by its backing material, which determines how it performs in different clinical situations.

1. Microporous Non-Woven Surgical Tape

Microporous surgical tape uses a non-woven backing with tiny pores that allow air circulation. This design helps reduce moisture buildup and skin irritation, making it suitable for patients with sensitive or fragile skin.

Typical uses include:

• Wound dressing fixation
• IV cannula stabilization
• Long-term care where frequent tape changes are required

This type of tape is commonly chosen in geriatric, pediatric, and dermatology-related care.

Learn more about Microporous Surgical Tape for sensitive skin applications.

2. Transparent PE Surgical Tape

Transparent PE (polyethylene) surgical tape features a clear film backing, allowing healthcare providers to visually monitor the skin or insertion site without removing the tape.

Typical uses include:

• IV catheter and infusion line fixation
• Medical tubing and device securing
• Situations requiring continuous observation

Its visibility supports infection control protocols by reducing unnecessary disturbance of dressings.

3. Silk Surgical Tape

Silk surgical tape is designed for high-adhesion clinical needs. With a fabric-like backing, it offers strong fixation and durability, particularly in areas subject to movement.

Typical uses include:

• Post-operative dressing fixation
• Securing medical devices in high-stress areas
• Applications requiring longer wear time

Because of its stronger adhesive properties, silk tape is usually selected for professional clinical environments rather than highly sensitive skin.

Key Materials Used in Surgical Tape

Understanding materials helps explain why different surgical tapes perform differently.

Non-Woven Fabric

• Soft and conformable
• High breathability
• Reduced skin trauma

Polyethylene (PE) Film

• Transparent for visual monitoring
• Water-resistant surface
• Smooth, flexible backing

Woven or Silk-Like Fabric

• High tensile strength
• Strong adhesion
• Durable for extended use

Each material supports a different clinical priority, such as comfort, visibility, or fixation strength.

Clinical Functions of Surgical Tape

Surgical tape serves several essential functions in healthcare settings:

• Fixation: Securing dressings, gauze, and pads
  
• Stabilization: Holding IV lines, catheters, and tubing in place
  
• Protection: Supporting wound coverage without restricting airflow
  
• Workflow efficiency: Allowing fast, reliable application and removal

Selecting the correct tape helps reduce:

• Skin irritation
• Dressing failure
• Device dislodgement
• Unnecessary reapplication

For a full overview of medical-grade surgical tape options, visit our Surgical Tape product category page.

Why Surgical Tape Selection Matters in Hospitals

From a clinical and procurement perspective, choosing the right surgical tape impacts:

• Patient comfort and skin integrity
• Infection control compliance
• Nursing efficiency
• Cost control through reduced waste

Hospitals often stock multiple types of surgical tape to ensure appropriate use across departments.

Conclusion

Surgical tape is more than a basic consumable—it is a critical clinical tool with distinct materials, functions, and use cases. Understanding the differences between microporous, transparent PE, and silk surgical tapes allows healthcare providers to make informed, patient-centered decisions.

As healthcare demands continue to grow, selecting the right surgical tape solution supports better outcomes, safer care, and more efficient clinical workflows.