Multiple graft harvestings from deep partial-thickness scald wounds healed under the influence of weak direct current

The time required for wound healing, contraction, and hypertrophic scarring often limit the use of deep partial-thickness burn wounds as donor sites for split-thickness grafts. We have examined the effects of weak direct current and silver nylon dressings on the healing of partial-thickness scald burns, split-thickness grafts taken from these wounds when healed, and the resulting donor sites in a guinea pig model. Dorsal scald wounds treated with weak direct current reepithelized by 12 days postinjury. Split-thickness grafts taken from healed scald wounds showed more rapid revascularization with direct current treatment than did control grafts. Grafts and donor sites treated with direct current showed more rapid reepithelization, decreased contraction, improved hair survival, and decreased dermal fibrosis when compared to controls not treated with direct current. Only donor wounds treated with weak direct current were reusable as donor sites.