The treatment of partial-thickness burns: Amnion versus topical antimicrobial crème

Abstract

Wound coverage for second degree burns remains a clinical challenge. In the present study we investigated whether the use of Amnion is safe and may represent a new therapeutic option for children with partial-thickness facial burns compared to standard topical treatment. Methods: Children with partial-thickness burns of the upper body and the face admitted between 2002 and 2004 were included in this study. Children were divided into two groups to receive either Amnion (n=48) or topical antimicrobials (2% Polymyxin B/ Bacitracin ointment) (n=53). Demographics (age, sex, race, TBSA, burn areas), length of hospital stay (LOS), rate of infections (RI), and need for systemic antibiotic treatment were compared between the two groups. The long term outcome was assessed in 14 patients in the Amnion and 17 patients in the topical group who returned for 3 to 6 month follow-ups. Results: There was no difference in age, gender, TBSA, burn area, LOS and RI between the two groups. The amnion group required significantly less systemic antibiotics compared to the standard treatment, p<0.05. One patient showed a mild facial swelling after Amnion application. Three patients in the topical group had a local reaction to the therapy. In each group, two patients showed hypertrophic scar development at the follow-up visits. Conclusion: This study indicates that Amnion is safe and may have advantages as a wound coverage for second degree facial burns compared to the standard topical ointments. However, a large prospective study should be performed in order to introduce Amnion as a treatment option.