Description

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Aloe Vera gel dressings compared to conventional paraffin-based tulle dressings in reducing postoperative pain at the donor site of split-thickness skin grafts (STSG). The study will be conducted in the Department of Plastic Surgery, Mayo Hospital, Lahore, over a period of six months.

Split-thickness skin grafting is a common reconstructive surgical procedure. Although effective, it creates a donor site wound that often causes significant postoperative pain, potentially affecting patient recovery and satisfaction. While paraffin-based tulle dressings are widely used, they may not offer optimal pain relief. Aloe Vera gel, due to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and wound-healing properties, is a promising alternative that has shown benefit in burn wounds and other superficial skin injuries.

A total of 72 patients (aged 18-60 years, of either gender) requiring STSG will be enrolled and randomized into two equal groups:

Group A will receive Aloe Vera gel dressings applied directly to the donor site.

Group B will receive conventional paraffin-based tulle dressings.

Both groups will undergo secondary dressing using dry gauze and crepe bandages. All procedures will be performed under general anesthesia, and grafts will be harvested at a uniform thickness (0.25-0.30 mm) using an electric dermatome.

Pain will be assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) on postoperative day 7. Analgesic use (specifically nalbuphine) will be recorded for patients reporting a VAS score ≥4. The primary outcome is the difference in mean pain scores between the two groups; secondary data includes the total analgesic consumption.

This study will provide evidence on whether Aloe Vera gel dressing is a more effective alternative to conventional dressing in managing donor site pain following skin grafting, potentially improving patient outcomes and influencing future dressing protocols.