Comparative Study on the Efficacy of Topical Antibiotics for Burn Wound Healing

Abstract

Burn injuries represent a major global health concern, often resulting in significant morbidity and long-term complications. Infection is a common and potentially fatal consequence of burn wounds, which compromises the healing process. Topical antibiotics have long
been used as frontline treatments to prevent and manage infection in burn injuries. This study aims to compare the clinical efficacy of commonly used topical antibioticsincluding silver sulfadiazine, mupirocin, and gentamicinin promoting burn wound healing and preventing
infection. Through a systematic review of existing literature and meta-analysis of clinical trial data, the study evaluates healing time, infection
rate, patient comfort, and adverse reactions. Findings indicate that while silver sulfadiazine remains the most widely used agent, mupirocin
demonstrates superior outcomes in superficial burns and lower infection rates, while gentamicin is more effective in wounds colonized by
gram-negative bacteria. These results support a more tailored approach to topical antibiotic selection, emphasizing antibiotic stewardship and
burn wound pathology. The study concludes with recommendations for clinical practice and future research directions.