A comparative study of glycerinized and lyophilized porcine skin in dressings for third-degree burns.

A comparative study of local treatment with lyophilized and glycerinized porcine skin was performed on 100 patients with third-degree burns. We compared the efficiency, simplicity, and cost of preparation of dehydrated, sterile porcine skin for ready use in temporary dressings for burn victims. We conclude that this is a simple, efficient, and safe method, which, because of its low cost, will permit greater use of porcine skin as a temporary substitute in dressings for third-degree burns.