A Prospective Comparative Study of 7% Topical Sucralfate Vs 1% Silver Sulfadiazine in the Management of Second-Degree Burns

Abstract

Background: Burns are a significant source of morbidity and psychological distress, particularly in developing countries, where they tend to be more prevalent and severe. They often result in considerable economic burdens and complications such as infections, delayed healing, and scarring. Although silver sulfadiazine has been widely used as a topical treatment, emerging alternatives like topical sucralfate have shown promise in enhancing wound healing and infection control.

Objective: To compare the efficacy of 7% topical sucralfate versus 1% silver sulfadiazine in the treatment of second-degree burns, focusing on the rate of healing, reduction in wound size, infection rates, and overall cosmetic outcomes.

Methods: A prospective comparative study was conducted at AVMCH from September 2022 to July 2024. Seventy-six patients with second-degree burns were enrolled and divided into two groups through convenience sampling: one group treated with 7% topical sucralfate, and the other with 1% silver sulfadiazine. The groups were comparable in terms of age, gender, burn site, and other physical characteristics. Wound assessments, including measurements of wound size and infection rates, were carried out on days 0, 3, 7, and 21. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 28, with a significance level set at p<0.05.

Results: The sucralfate group demonstrated a significantly greater reduction in mean wound size compared to the silver sulfadiazine group. By day 21, 86.8% of patients in the sucralfate group achieved complete healing, compared to 68.4% in the silver sulfadiazine group. Additionally, the sucralfate group showed a significantly lower rate of infection, indicating superior infection control (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Topical 7% sucralfate is more effective than 1% silver sulfadiazine in the management of second-degree burns, offering superior outcomes in terms of wound contraction, healing rate, and infection prevention. Sucralfate presents a promising alternative treatment for burns, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing complications associated with burn injuries.