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Lab Research
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Preparation and characterization of chitin based wound dressing First Author: M.P. CHACHARKAR Authors: M.P. Chacharkar, PhD and Rita Singh, PhD Chitin, a unique biopolymer based on the N-acetyl-glucosamine monomer is envisioned to promote rapid dermal regeneration and accelerate wound healing. It has many useful and advantageous biological properties for its application as a wound dressing [1, 2]. The present study was focused on the preparation of chitin dressing and its evaluation for use as a wound dressing. Chitin (0.2 Ð 1.0%) in lithium chloride and dimethylacetamide solvent system was used [3]. Film formation following gradual coagulation or using different solvents Ð butanol, propanol, acetone was attempted. Antimicrobial efficacy and impermeability of the dressings to different bacterial strains- Pseudomonas, Proteus, Staphylococcus, Micrococcus, Streptococcus, Flavimonas, Bacillus and Escherichia coli was determined. The chitin dressing provided an effective barrier to microbial penetration and exerted a broad bacteriostatic action against gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. Fluid handling capacity and moisture vapour transmission rate was measured with time. Effect of different doses of gamma radiation (5-25 kGy) on the microbial contamination was determined. Gamma irradiation at 25 kGy was found suitable for sterilization of the dressings. Irritant effect of the processed dressings on skin and mucous membrane was tested. Sub-cutaneous and scarification test in Guinea Pigs showed no signs of inflammation. This was further supported by the Finkelstein's test performed in rabbits. Also, no signs of delayed local or systemic toxicity were seen in any of the treated animals. The chitin dressings were found to have optimal performance characteristics of a skin dressing and showed no complications or possible adverse reactions. The study demonstrates the chitin dressings as useful adjunct in wound care. |
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