A SIMPLER TECHNIC FOR PROMOTING EPITHELIZATION AND PROTECTING SKIN GRAFTS

Abstract

The literature is replete with articles on the healing of wounds, and I therefore hesitate to present a new one. However, after having given this method an extensive trial for a period of over eight years and having had it used during this period by colleagues who without exception returned enthusiastic reports of results, I have decided to present it to the profession. When the acute stage of a burn is past, there follows a long and tedious convalescence with the resultant adhesions, contractions and heavy bands of scar tissue. A not unusual picture is a red, granulating, weeping, infected, painful area healing sluggishly with overabundant granulations and absence of epithelium. The treatment of this type of lesion taxes the ingenuity of the attending surgeon. Messy ointments are applied spread on gauze, or lotions are used. Changing dressings is extremely painful and not infrequently requires a general anesthetic. The method