A random prospective pilot study of Sorbact versus Acticoat versus Silverlon for the treatment of burn wounds in a South African adult burns unit

Abstract

The Tygerberg adult burns unit is a level three provincial service for severe burns. Burn patients of 12 years or older are admitted. Annually about 300 patients are treated, of which 110 would be intensive care admissions. The burn unit has bed capacity for 22 patients, of which 6 are intensive care and the rest ward beds. Adequate operating time is available to optimally manage about 50% of the patients weekly. During the colder periods from April to September management of patients is compromised due to the severe workload demands and lack of resources.