{'fraction_non_alphanumeric': 0.02609308885754584, 'fraction_numerical': 0.004936530324400564, 'mean_word_length': 5.1695652173913045, 'pattern_counts': {'":': 0, '<': 0, '<?xml version=': 0, '>': 0, 'https://': 0, 'lorem ipsum': 0, 'www.': 0, 'xml': 0}, 'pii_count': 0, 'substrings_counts': 0, 'word_list_counts': {'cursed_substrings.json': 0, 'profanity_word_list.json': 0, 'sexual_word_list.json': 0, 'zh_pornsignals.json': 0}}
A Novel Hand-Shaped Suprathel Simplifies the Treatment of Partial-Thickness Burns

OBJECTIVE: The standard therapy to treat superficial partial-thickness burns of the hand involves the application of skin substitutes such as Suprathel (PolyMedics Innovations GmbH, Denkendorf, Germany), which reduce pain significantly, thus allowing a fast mobilization and leading to a quicker restoration of function. The aim of this study was to simplify the application of Suprathel by using new precut hand-shaped bandages. METHODS: Suprathel sheets have been produced in precut hand shapes that can be applied on the palm or on the dorsum of the hand. During a 6-month study period, 24 patients were treated with Suprathel after a burn injury of the hand. Half the patients received standard Suprathel sheets, and half received the novel hand-shaped Suprathel. Application time and material waste were documented closely. RESULTS: By using the Hand-Suprathel, application time was significantly reduced up to 80% compared with the standard rectangular Suprathel sheets. When the standard Suprathel sheet was reduced to the size and shape of the hand, approximately 40% of the material was discharged. In contrast, almost no material waste occurred by using Hand-Suprathel. CONCLUSION: The use of the new Hand-Suprathel increases efficiency because of its convenient and faster application, as well as by reducing material waste.