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Arch Intern Med. 2004;164:1242-1243.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

Microwave-heated cryogel hot/cold packs offer the convenience of deeper penetration and more prolonged retention of heat than warm soaks or towels. Unfortunately, this type of therapy has resulted in serious second- and third-degree burns. Well-documented reports of major injuries produced by cryogel packs and other forms of microwave-heated compresses have been published in peer review journals in recent years.^1-3 Despite the clear cautions recommended in these articles, a major brand of commercially available cryogel pack contains directions that are entirely inadequate in identifying potential hazards associated with its use. A case of a third-degree burn following the use of a microwave heated cryogel pack was reported by Dave.¹ He concluded that a "lack of sufficient warning on the pack itself is a potential hazard. Microwave ovens heat quickly, deeply and unevenly: Readings can be misleading, paving the way for serious injuries."

The case reported herein involves burns that were produced . . . [Full Text of this Article]

Report of a Case


Comment
Alfred Soffer, MD
Glenview, Ill