The use of semi-permeable membranes for wound management.

This paper reports a study comparing bags made from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene semi-permeable membranes and standard plastic bags to treat burns of the hands. There was much less maceration in the PTFE bag, which allowed easier assessment of the extent and depth of burn, and only one daily dressing change was needed. The two types of bag were similar with regard to ease of use, low bacterial contamination and allowing good mobilisation of the hand. Ease of use has meant that a greater number of patients with superficial burns can be treated as outpatients and many are able to do their own daily dressing change, so fewer attendances at the clinic are needed.