Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Response of bone mineral density and balance performance in post-burn patients with selected Qigong training: A single-blind randomized controlled trial.
Decreased bone mineral density (BMD) is a common condition after a burn with significant complications that would be a global health problem. Also, balance can further worsen due to burning complications. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the additive effects of selected Qigong training exercises for 2 months to the standard physiotherapy regimen on bone mineral density and balance control post-thermal burn injuries. ⋯ In patients with repaired second and third-degree thermal burns of the trunk and lower legs, Qigong training activities combined with a standard physiotherapy regimen for 2 months were more helpful in increasing bone mineral density and improving balance control than the standard physiotherapy regimen alone.
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Observational Study
Risk factors for burn contractures: A cross-sectional study in a lower income country.
Risk factors for burn contractures require further study, especially in low and middle-income countries (LMICs); existing research has been predominantly conducted in high income countries (HICs). This study aimed to identify risk factors for burn contractures of major joints in a low-income setting. Potential risk factors (n = 104) for burn contracture were identified from the literature and a survey of clinicians with extensive experience in low and middle-income countries (LMIC). ⋯ A key finding was that risk factors for contracture in low-income settings may differ substantially from those seen in high income countries, which has implications for effective prevention strategies in these countries. Better whole person and joint outcome measures are required for accurate determination of risk factors for burn contracture. Recommendations for planning and reporting on future contracture risk factor studies are made.
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Debridement is crucial for effective wound management in patients with severe burn injuries, and bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme from pineapple stems, has emerged as a promising alternative for surgery. However, potential links of bromelain use to fever and sepsis have raised some concerns. Given the uncertainty as to whether this was caused by infection or other inflammatory sources, we aimed to investigate if the use of topical bromelain was associated with bacteremia. ⋯ Our study did not confirm an association between topical bromelain and bacteremia in patients with severe burn injuries. This finding can inform evidence-based practices by addressing concerns about potential risks of bromelain use, contributing to the development of more effective and safe burn wound management strategies.