THE USE OF CERIUM NITRATE-SILVER SULFADIAZINE AS A TOPICAL BURNS DRESSING

Infection remains the major cause of morbidity and mortality following the shock phase in the burn patient. Measures to reduce the risk of w ound infection and subsequent sepsis include early excision where poss ible, and the use of topical antimicrobial creams such as silver sulph adiazine. Studies from the USA and Europe suggest the addition of ceri um nitrate to this commonly used agent may improve its efficacy. We pr esent the findings of a pilot study which investigated the action of a commercial preparation of cerium nitrate/silver sulphadiazine mixture (Flammacerium, Duphar B.V. Holland) on 20 patients considered unsuita ble for surgery. There were no episodes of cellulitis or septicaemia. Flammacerium was noted to produce an adherent eschar that was easy to shave and which received split skin grafts well.