Evaluation of Two Commonly Used Temporary Skin Dressings for the Treatment of Acute Partial-Thickness Wounds in Rats

Abstract

There is a broad range of expensive temporary wound dressings that promise better results in wound management. The aim of this study was to compare two commonly used temporary dressings for the treatment of partial-thickness wounds in a rat model. Forty-two partial thickness wounds were created on the back of Lewis rats and treated with the dressings; control wounds remained without treatment. Wound size was determined daily by measuring the scabbed area. Three months after the wounds were created, skin elasticity was measured and a histologic evaluation was performed. Wound appearance in the animals in the treated groups did not differ significantly. Wound closure was slower in the control group than in the dressing groups. There was no histologic evidence of inflammation and no suggestion of epidermal changes in any group. Using both skin dressings, we observed satisfying results without any significant differences. Because of rising health care expenses, cost should play an essential role in the clinical application of these dressings.