A randomized prospective study of a hydroactive dressing vs conventional treatment after shave biopsy excision

Abstract

Background and design: Fifty shave biopsy sites were prospectively randomized to treatment with either a hydroactive dressing or conventional therapy (bacitracin plus Band-Aid). Time to complete epithelialization, pain, infection, and convenience of the therapy were assessed.

Results: There was no significant difference between the two dressings with regard to time to heal, wound infection rate, or pain. However, patients preferred the hydroactive dressing because of convenience.

Conclusion: Hydroactive dressings did not accelerate healing compared with conventional therapy, but may facilitate wound management because of convenience and time savings in dressing changes.