Improved experimental burn model on rabbits.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The goal of our study was to find an easy and suitable skin burn model for rabbits, to identify the temperature and contact time to reach a deep 2nd degree burn, and to find the best wound dressing fixation method. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We used New Zealand male rabbits as experimental models. On a pilot study, with a copper device heated to temperatures between 43-48 Celsius degrees, the burn was inflicted using contact timesof 3, 4, 5, and 7 seconds. The burn depth was evaluated histological. Twenty-four rabbits were used to evaluate four dressing fixation methods: regular dressing with retention bandages; skin stapler; collars and body resin cast. RESULTS: A 2nd degree deep burn was obtained at 43 degrees for 4 seconds. The retention elastic bandages were removed within hours and the skin staplers were removed with teeth leaving wounds on the skin. The collars were more successful but produced superficial neck lesions. The body resin casts were the most successful. CONCLUSIONS: The best contention method was the bpdy resin cast.