Five percent mafenide acetate solution in the treatment of thermal injuries.

A 5% mafenide acetate solution was used in the treatment of 669 patients with thermal injuries. This solution was used as the initial topical antibacterial agent in the treatment of the acute burn wound in 276 patients. It was initiated during the intermediate and chronic phases of burn wound therapy in 393 patients. Acid-base derangements did not occur. Discontinuation of therapy because of the patient's pain was necessary in fewer than 1% (17 of 669) of all patients treated. The incidence of rash and pruritus was extremely low. Effective antibacterial activity was achieved. This solution appears to be an effective, safe, and versatile antibacterial agent that produces minimal side effects and is useful in all phases of burn wound management.