Silver sulfadiazine therapy for the management of burns.

Abstract

Background: Burns are a significant global public health concern. There are approximately 180 000 burn-related deaths annually. This review analysed the characteristics of silver sulfadiazine (SSD) therapy and its effectiveness in treating moderate and severe burns.

Method: This is a systematic review of studies published between 2018 and 2023, conducted using Google Scholar, PubMed and Science Direct. The search identified 4155 articles; 3708 were excluded based on titles and abstracts. After further screening, 10 full-text articles were analysed, including five randomised controlled trials, one cross-series study, one cross-sectional study and three experimental studies.

Findings: The analysis indicated that SSD therapy is effective for second- and third-degree burns. Eight studies reported positive outcomes such as enhanced healing, granulation tissue formation and infection control. However, two studies noted limited effectiveness, highlighting the need for complementary treatments to optimise results. No severe complications were associated with SSD use, demonstrating its safety and reliability in burn care.

Conclusions: SSD therapy is an effective and safe option for managing moderate and severe burns, often requiring additional treatments to maximise its benefits.

Implications for practice: SSD therapy should be incorporated into burn treatment protocols, with additional therapies considered to enhance healing outcomes. Its effectiveness in infection control makes it a valuable option, particularly in resource-limited settings where advanced treatments may not be available. To optimise burn management, ongoing research and clinician training are essential in refining best practices and ensuring the most effective use of SSD therapy.