Comparison of hydrocolloid dressings and early necrectomy in the treatment of deep partial thickness burns of the hand

Abstract

Aim: In this study we compared two methods of treatment of deep partial thickness burns of the dorsal part of hand. We were looking for better method of hand burn treatment to achieve the best cosmetical and functional result. Methods: Study was performed in KMUH department of plastic and reconstructive surgery during 2 years period. In this study we compared function of the hand and appearance of 57 patients hands treated in KMUH during this period. 28 of them treated using hydrocolloid dressings and 29 with early necrectomy and plasty. Results: Comparing these two methods we did not found statistically significant difference in hospital stay. Range of motions and the strength was better in hydrocolloid dressings group. But this difference was not statistically significant. The appearance was statistically significant better in Hydrocolloid dressings group. Discussion: Function of the hand and appearance of the hand sustained deep partial thickness burn of dorsal part of the hand were better in hydrocolloid group. Statistically significant difference was only comparing appearance. We are going to extend this study and hope that treatment using hydrocolloid dressings will give better functional and aesthetical results.