Because of its unique properties, nanocellulose has been shown to be a highly
effective wound dressing material. In fact, the results of various studies indicate
that topical applications of nanocellulose membranes improve the healing
process of burns and chronic wounds. Recent study conducted in Poland used
never-dried cellulose membranes in order to treat patients with severe seconddegree
burns (Czaja et al. 2007a, b). This study showed that the skin of the
patients whose burns were covered with never-dried cellulose membranes healed
faster (faster reepithelialization) than the wounds of patients who received a
conventional wound dressing (such as wet gauze and ointments). The Polish
study also found that cellulose membranes actually performed better than conventional
wound dressings in (1) conforming to the wound surface (excellent
molding to all facial contours and a high degree of adherence even to the
contoured parts such as nose, mouth, etc. were observed), (2) maintaining a
moist environment within the wound, (3) significantly reducing pain, (4) accelerating
reepithelialization and the formation of granulation tissue, and (5) reducing
scar formation. These nanocellulose membranes can be created in any shape
and size, which is beneficial for the treatment of large and difficult to cover areas
of the body (Fig. 21.20).