Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Compression garments are well accepted as routine practice for scar management after burn. In a recent systematic review, six main reasons for compression garment non-adherence were identified including sensory disturbances. To further understand the impact of sensory issues, the aim of the present study is to investigate associations between sensory variables and compression garment wear. ⋯ Overall, sensory factors assessed using both self-report and quantitative sensory testing were associated with compression garment adherence. This knowledge suggests the value in developing and evaluating sensory-informed treatment strategies to improve compression garment wear.
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The current evidence to support the use of massage for scar management is conflicting in the literature. The purpose of this study was to compare two scar massage protocols administered with pediatric burn survivors to determine if a more structured and standardized approach to scar massage could improve outcome. A retrospective review of the medical records of 100 children who received massage during the time period when two different protocols were implemented was conducted and data that was collected as part of the clinical exam regarding scar height, vascularity, pliability, itch and pain were extracted. ⋯ However, when comparing patients who received Protocol A to those who received Protocol B, there was no difference found in scar height, vascularity, pliability, itch or pain. Using commonly applied subjective scar assessment tools, we did not find clinically meaningful changes in scar characteristics with the implementation of a structured scar massage program compared to a general approach to massage. Further research is needed to better define the impact of massage on the recovery experience for burn survivors.
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Burn injuries are common afflictions; however, conservative wound care frequently leads to poor treatment compliance and physical disability in deep burn patients. Therefore, regenerative biologic materials, which are more effective for tissue repair, are required, particularly for deep second-degree burns. A novel spray formulation of basic fibroblast growth factors (bFGF) was produced by synthesizing fibroblast growth factor proteins. In this post-marketing surveillance (PMS) study, we assessed the safety and efficacy of bFGF and indirectly compared this formulation with cultured epidermal autografts (CEAs) for treating deep second-degree burns. ⋯ Our study demonstrated that bFGF is a compelling regenerative therapy with competitive clinical efficacy and safety for deep second-degree burns and reduced treatment time, which is expected to reduce medical costs, particularly for deep second-degree burn patients.
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Infection is the main cause of mortality and complications in burn patients. The present study was the first to examine the local profile and antecedents of bacterial infections among patients admitted to a Lebanese burn care center. ⋯ Existing burn management and infection control measures must be revised in order to reduce the incidence and improve the treatment of infections in burn patients.
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Unsafe tap water temperatures (>120 °F) are a risk factor for pediatric burns, which may disproportionally impact low-income, urban communities. We sought to estimate the incidence and demographic characteristics of tap water burns and their association with housing characteristics. ⋯ Our results identified a significant number of tap water burns in children. Primary prevention efforts targeting education or regulation of water temperatures may work to reduce burns in underserved areas.