Randomized clinical study of SilvaSorb gel in comparison to Silvadene silver sulfadiazine cream in the management of partial-thickness burns.

This prospective, randomized study assessed the clinical, microbiological, and patient comfort characteristics of two silver-based topical agents in the management of partial-thickness burn wounds. Pediatric patients were randomly assigned to treatment with either SilvaSorb (R) Gel (Medline Industries, Munedelein, IL) or Silvadene (R) silver sulfadiazine cream (King Pharmaceuticals, Bristol, TN) for tip to 21 days or to the point of full reepithelialization of the wound. Inclusion criteria were patients ranging in age from 2 months to 18 years with TBSA ranging from I up to 40%. A total of 24 patients were enrolled and completed the study. Findings demonstrated that the use of SilvaSorb Gel was associated with less pain and greater patient satisfaction when compared with Silvadene. No statistically significant differences were found when assessing the rate of infection, time to reepithelialization, or the number of dressings changes required during treatment. The reduction of pain and improved overall patient satisfaction with the use of SilvaSorb Gel compared with Silvadene indicates an important role for SilvaSorb Gel in treatment of partial-thickness burns in a pediatric population. (J Burn Care Res 2009;30:262-267)