Abstract
Introduction
Topical delivery of antibacterial agents is typically incorporated and is an essential component of burn wound therapy. The goal is to prevent infection and promote the healing process. Poorly treated wounds can result in scarring or severely in sepsis and multi-organ dysfunction. Topical SSD cream has been the gold-standard for initial local care in partial thickness or full thickness burns. Due to immediate burst release of the drug into the exposed areas, application is relatively frequent (usually twice daily). However, it remains unknown whether twice-daily SSD dressings are superior to once-daily.
Methods
We maintained a twice-daily dressing change standard of care until 01/01/2019. Patients admitted after that date had their dressing changed once-daily. Our goal is to review outcomes for 75 patients before the change-of-practice and 75 patients after. The main outcomes recorded are wound infection rates, hospital-acquire complications (non-wound related), pain scores, daily narcotic requirements, average amount of SSD used, and length-of-stay.
Results
Preliminary results of the 75 pre-change-of-practice and 75 post-change-of-practice patients showed slightly better outcomes in the post-change group. Wound-infection rates were the same for both groups (pre=5.33%, post=5.33%), average daily pain-levels for the pre-change group were slightly higher but the difference was negligible and not statistically significant (pre=5.76, post=5.69). The pre-change group had a higher average daily narcotic dosage (pre=6.81mg, post=6.38mg), hospital-acquired complication rates were higher pre-change (pre=10.67%, post=6.67%), and length-of-stay was longer in the pre-change group (pre=10.81, post=9.25). The average amount of SSD jars used per patient was higher as well (pre=6.30, post=2.85). Statistical analysis of the distribution of burn type, age, and burn depth showed no discrepancy and a generalized decreased length-of-stay with once-daily SSD dressing change.
Conclusions
Preliminary results show that once-daily dressing changes of SSD in burn wounds have no negative impact on wound outcomes. However, it is associated with a decreased length-of-stay, decreased pain levels, and less hospital-acquired complications. A decreased length-of-stay means reduced medical expenses for the patient and the hospital. In addition, less hospital-acquired complications result in better patient recovery. Since the difference in wound outcomes is negligible and statistically insignificant, changing the standard-of-care to once-daily could prove beneficial.
Dual Topical Antibiotic Application Prior to Sternotomy Closure Reduces Sternal Wound Infection Rates: A Simple Solution to a Grave Morbidity
