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Efficacy of Collagen Dressing for Scald Burn Among the Paediatric Population
A H Mallick1, G Dutta1, D P Panda1
1Department of Plastic Surgery, R G Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, India.
Insights
Collagen-based dressings offer a promising solution for managing paediatric burn wounds, reducing pain and the need for frequent changes. This approach led to faster healing and discharge in most young patients.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Paediatric Burn Management
- Wound Healing
Background:
- Burn wound management presents significant challenges, particularly in paediatric patients.
- Frequent dressing changes are a major concern, causing pain and psychological distress.
- Advanced wound care materials are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of collagen-based dressings in paediatric scald burn management.
- To assess outcomes including wound healing time, pain reduction, and dressing change frequency.
- To determine the safety and tolerability of collagen dressings in children.
Main Methods:
- A prospective observational study involving 38 paediatric patients (under 12 years) with scald burns.
- Application of collagen material directly onto cleaned wounds, followed by paraffin gauze and dry dressing.
- Dressing changes initiated on day 5, then every 3-4 days until wound closure.
Main Results:
- 87% (33/38) of patients were discharged within 12 days.
- Infection occurred in 5 patients; no adverse reactions to collagen dressings were reported.
- Collagen dressings significantly reduced the frequency of painful dressing changes.
Conclusions:
- Collagen-based dressings are effective and safe for paediatric burn wound management.
- This method minimizes pain and psychological trauma associated with frequent dressing changes.
- Collagen dressings represent a valuable advancement in optimizing care for young burn patients.
Abstract:
Management of burn wounds is challenging. Dressing changes, especially in paediatric burn patients, are a major concern. To address these challenges, numerous methods and advanced dressing materials have been developed. Collagen, a biocompatible material easily derived from natural sources, has emerged as a promising option. The primary goals are early wound healing, reduced pain sensitivity, and fewer dressing changes in the paediatric population. A prospective observational study was conducted among 38 paediatric patients, under 12 years of age, with scald burns. The study was conducted from 1st January 2024 to the end of October 2024. When a patient was admitted with scald burn, the wound was cleaned with normal saline and collagen materials were applied over the wound. This was followed by paraffin impregnated gauze and dry dressing. The first dressing was opened on day 5 and followed by dressing every 3 to 4 days until the wound healed. Thirty-three out of 38 patients (87%) were discharged within 12 days. Infection was found in 5 patients. No adverse reaction due to the application of collagen was observed. Collagen-based dressing is an important dynamic for burn wound management. Frequent change of dressing is avoided, with a significant impact on pain and psychological trauma among the paediatric population.
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