A prospective, randomized, controlled trial comparing the outpatient treatment of pediatric and adult partial-thickness burns with suprathel or Mepilex Ag

Model System:

Burn

Reference Type:

Journal article

Accession No.:

J81101

Journal:

Journal of Burn Care And Research (formerly Journal of Burn Care & Rehabilitation)

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2018 , 39, 2, 261267

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study compared Mepilex Ag, a silver-impregnated foam dressing, and Suprathel, a polylactic acid membrane, in the outpatient treatment of partial-thickness burns in pediatric and adult patients. Patients were enrolled in a randomized, controlled, prospective clinical trial. Time to reepithelialization, wound pain, discomfort during dressing changes, and treatment cost were monitored. Objective scar characteristics (elasticity, transepidermal water loss, hydration, and pigmentation) and subjective assessments (Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale) were measured at 1 month post burn. Sixty-two patients (32 Suprathel, 30 Mepilex Ag) were enrolled; age, sex, and burn size were comparable between the groups. Time to reepithelialization was not different between the groups (12 days). Pain ratings were significantly reduced during the first 5 days after burn in the Suprathel group in all patients and a pediatric subgroup. Viscolelasticity of burned skin was elevated compared with unburned skin in the Mepilex Ag group at 1 month post burn. Patients treated with Suprathel reported better overall scar quality. The cost of treatment per square centimeter for Mepilex Ag was considerably lower than that of Suprathel. Both dressings are feasible and efficacious for the outpatient treatment of minor and selected moderate partial-thickness burns. Reduced pain, especially in a pediatric patient population, may be advantageous, despite increased treatment cost.

Author(s):