Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Early ambulation of lower extremity burns that undergo a skin graft may help to avoid some of the complications associated with immobilization. Despite recent evidence supporting early ambulation, post-operative immobilization following lower extremity skin grafting is still a common practice. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively assess the outcomes of lower extremity skin graft cases dressed with a multi-layer compression bandage who were ambulated in the immediate post-operative period. ⋯ This study demonstrates the excellent graft take rates that can be achieved with immediate ambulation following lower extremity skin grafting and challenges the conventional teaching of post-operative bed rest following lower extremity skin grafting procedures.
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Scar massage is used in burn units globally to improve functional and cosmetic outcomes of hypertrophic scarring following a burn, however, the evidence to support this therapy is unknown. ⋯ It appears that there is preliminary evidence to suggest that scar massage may be effective to decrease scar height, vascularity, pliability, pain, pruritus and depression in hypertrophic burns scaring. This review reflects the poor quality of evidence and lack of consistent and valid scar assessment tools. Controlled, clinical trials are needed to develop evidence-based guidelines for scar massage in hypertrophic burns scarring.
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Despite extensive warnings from health authorities regarding the dangers of direct sunlight exposure, most people still turn to sun bathing to get a golden tan. Unfortunately, that pleasant tan appearance is often lost because of over exposure to sunlight, resulting in painful red sunburns. In this paper we are reporting a case with significant sunburn injuries that required hospitalization and treatment in a burn center. ⋯ On most occasions, these are superficial and are in the form of erythema. Nonetheless, the public is unaware of the impending risks of developing deep sunburn injuries that can occur especially during protracted holiday exposures. Therefore, it is crucial to escalate public awareness and to implement preventive measures to reduce the short and long-term risks of sun exposure.
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The incidence of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)-related burns has increased over recent years, and it has become a serious public health issue in developing countries such as India and Turkey. This paper aims to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of LPG-related burns to provide assistance and suggestions for planning prevention strategies. ⋯ Our study shows that the exponential increase in LPG-related burns is alarming. This calls for rigorous precautions. Because gas leak was the main cause of LPG-related burns, any part of LPG stove system that shows signs of weathering should be replaced regularly. In addition, we also found that most of the LAMA patients were uninsured. Thus, comprehensive medical insurance should be involved early in the recovery process to assure a safe and adequate discharge.
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Perceived social support among patients with burn injuries: A perspective from the developing world.
Social support is among the most well-established predictors of post-burn psychopathology after burn. Despite a disproportionately large burden of burns in the developing world, the nature of social support among burn patients in this context remains elusive. We, therefore, seek to investigate social support and its biopsychosocial determinants among patients with burn injuries in Pakistan. ⋯ Our study reveals a troubling pattern of inadequate social support among certain subgroups of Pakistani burn patients. Addressing these inequities in the provision of social support must be prioritized as part of the global burn care agenda.