In a previous study the Water-Jel system (dressings) was found to protect the burn wound from microbial contamination and to have excellent analgesic and cooling effects when used as the first-aid dressing. In an extensive bacteriologic study in vitro, both semiquantitative and qualitative, Water-Jel was bactericidal in all 15 microorganisms tested, including yeasts. All 15 microorganisms were from the Ostrava Burn Unit. Water-Jel was used successfully in three surgical, nonburned patients with very contaminated, dilacerated wounds. It was superior to all the selective antibiotics used systemically. After its 3-day application, the wounds became sterile; the skin grafting was successful.