Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
-
The Burn Specific Health Scale (BSHS) is designed to measure burn-specific, health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the abbreviated BSHS (BSHS-A). ⋯ The present study demonstrated that the BSHS-A (Chinese version) has good psychometric properties, showing suitable internal consistency and test-retest reliability. The BSHS-A may, thus, be useful for assessing HRQoL in Chinese burn victims. However, adaptations may be required to reduce its length.
-
Tissue engineering has progressed in delivering laboratory-expanded keratinocytes to the clinic; however the production of a suitable alternative to a skin graft, containing both epidermis and dermis still remains a challenge. ⋯ We describe the first key steps in the production of a skin substitute to be assembled in theatre eliminating the need for cell culture. Whilst further experiments are needed to develop this technique it can be a useful addition to armamentarium of the reconstructive surgeon.
-
Burns are a challenge for trauma care and a contribution to the surgical burden. The former Soviet republic of Ukraine has a foundation for burn care; however data concerning burns in Ukraine has historically been scant. The objective of this paper was to compare a new burn database to identify problems and implement improvements in burn care and prevention in this country. ⋯ We created one of the first burn databases from a region of the former Soviet Union in an effort to bring attention to burn injury and improve burn care.
-
Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) is characterized by an exfoliative rash resembling widespread burns. It is often considered on the same spectrum of disease as Stevens Johnson Syndrome but is distinguished by epidermal detachment of >30% of total body surface area (TBSA). Ocular involvement of TEN may result in complications requiring intensive topical, systemic or operative treatment. This study aimed to identify the current hospital management of, and factors associated with, ophthalmic involvement in adult TEN patients. ⋯ Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for ocular involvement when exfoliation of the head and neck is present and should seek ophthalmological advice early in the course of disease.
-
Mortality rates from severe necrotising soft tissue infections are improving progressively, therefore more emphasis should be placed on assessing and improving the quality of life of surviving patients. We investigated the functional and psychological issues, ability to social integration and self-perception of appearance in such patients presenting to our unit over 4 years. To conduct the study, we used the Short Form-36 and the Derriford Appearance Scale-24, which were distributed to those willing to participate. ⋯ The capability of psychosocial adjustment was shown to improve with longer follow-up time and older age. However pain, physical limitations and energy levels were considerably more relevant in the older individuals and improved slower with time compared to psychological issues. Our results act as a good indicator of the quality of life in people dealing with the aftermath of necrotising soft tissue infections, but further, more extensive studies are required to achieve comprehensive and statistically significant results.