Table Salt is An Alternative to Silver Nitrate Cautery for the Treatment of Umbilical Granuloma: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

The aim of this prospective study explore a cheap and readily available alternative to silver nitrate cautery, with far-reaching implications for many populations with limited access to medical care. Seventy four patients were enrolled in this prospective randomized controlled study. Patients were divided in two groups of 37 patients each. A stick applicator of 75% silver nitrate was applied in first group by the pediatric surgeon in the outpatient clinic. The patients in the second group was applied a small amount of table salt granules twice a day for 3 days by the family members at home. In the first week after treatment, the same treatment was applied for the second time to the patients who presence of umbilical exudate in both groups. Response to treatment was evaluated in the second week. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in the first week and second week after treatment in regard to presence of umbilical exudate and complication (P>0,05). Table salt is a safe alternative to silver nitrate cautery in the treatment of umbilical granuloma.

Key words: Silver nitrate; table salt; umbilical granuloma

Special Issue of Health Sciences

DOI: 10.7176/JSTR/6-03-33