Comparing How Burn Wounds and Scars Heal in Children Using Chitosan and Silver Dressings

Burns are among the most common types of trauma worldwide, ranking fourth after traffic accidents, falls, and violence, and account for an estimated 265,000 deaths annually (WHO). Most burn injuries result from heat exposure, though other causes include friction, chemicals, and electricity. Effective burn treatment aims to promote wound healing by supporting tissue regeneration and maintaining optimal conditions such as moisture, oxygenation, and low bacterial load. In Slovenia and across Europe, silver-based dressings are commonly used for burn care. While they are known to support wound healing, their effectiveness in reducing scar formation remains unclear. Chitosan-based hydrogels, by contrast, offer promising benefits due to their natural biocompatibility, antibacterial action, and support for tissue repair, though clinical data are still limited. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of chitosan-based and silver-based dressings in burn wound healing, focusing on healing time, scar formation, cost-efficiency, and patient experience. Scar outcomes will be assessed using the validated POSAS (Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale).