Treatment of Burns with Zinc-Tape: A Study of Local Absorption of Zinc in Humans

Abstract

Local wound treatment in humans and adhesive Zn tape was examined. Measurements of the Zn content of the tape before and after treatment and in wound secretion and serum demonstrate that Zn is most likely absorbed into the granulation tissue and serum. The possible advantages of local absorption of Zn are discussed. The evaporative water losses through the tape were also recorded. The fresh Zn tape is almost impermeable to water. After 24 h of burn treatment the evaporative water loss through the tape is similar to the water loss through a homograft.