Evaluation of Polyethylene Surgical Drape as an Alternative Wound Dressing Material, Compared to Banana Leaf (Musa paradisiaca) Dressing in Facial Abrasions.

Abstract

Facial abrasions, the most common squeal of trauma, have been treated widely by moist occlusive dressings. This novel study aims to evaluate polyethylene surgical drape dressing (PESG) as an alternative to autoclaved banana leaf (Musa paradisiaca) dressing in facial abrasions. Sixty patients who reported to our emergency department, having abrasions over head, neck and face region secondary to trauma, were included. Thirty patients were given PESG, and 30 were given banana leaf dressings. Dressings were changed daily for 7days. Pain on dressing change, status of wound bed on every dressing change, handling characteristics of each dressing material and comfort to the patient were assessed. Analysis revealed that the properties of PESG dressings are parallel to banana leaf dressing in all aspects except pain on dressing change. PESG caused no pain during dressing change which was statistically significant (p < 0.011). Facial abrasions can be effectively treated by PESG dressing. It is easily available in any hospital setting, has an ideal surface, i.e. impervious and smooth. It also maintains a moist condition,is completely painless and inexpensive. Hence, it can become a new standard for treating facial abrasions especially to poor patients in developing countries.