The Use of a Polylactic Membrane in Pediatric Burns Proves to be Successful Even After Late Application

Abstract

The Polylactide membrane (PLM) is a biosynthetic dressing that mimics properties of the human epithelium. Herein we describe our experience on the use of PLM in pediatric burns. All pediatric burn patients admitted to the Pediatric Surgery Department between November 2019 and November 2021 and submitted to PLM application were selected. Clinical and demographic data were collected retrospectively. Seventy-seven patients with a median age of 1.8 years were included. The median total body surface area was 6% (2-20%), and burns were mainly mixed-partial thickness. PLM was applied at a median of 5 days post-burn (IQR 3-6), usually under sedation (43/77). After PLM application, the median healing time (HT) was 10 days (IQR 8-14). HT was significantly higher in deep-partial thickness burns vs. mixed superficial-deep (P = .015) and superficial burn areas (P = .006). No correlation was found between HT and the timing of PLM application. The grafting rate due to clinical misevaluation was 2.7%, one infection was found. The PLM is a promising way for treating partial-thickness burns, even when applied later during treatment. Shorter HT, the decreased need for dressing changes, and the potential of sparing of donor sites and pain reduction are its main advantages.