A cream commonly used to treat burns may actually delay healing, Cochrane researchers concluded after a systematic review of data. In addition, despite the wide range of wound dressings available for burns, there is no consensus on the most effective alternative treatment. Healthcare providers have used silver sulphadiazine (SSD) cream since the 1960s to minimise the risk of burns becoming infected, although concerns have recently been raised about its toxic effects on skin cells.
Trials showed that a number of different dressing types, including polyurethane films, hydrocolloid gels and biosynthetic dressings, can be more effective for treatment of moderate burns than SSD or standard chlorhexidine impregnated gauze dressings. As well as reducing healing times, some alternative dressings also reduced pain associated with burns.
The researchers said there is need for further trials to help inform doctors about the most appropriate treatments for burns of different severities.
