Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Split-thickness skin grafts (STSG) taken using calibrated powered dermatomes are assumed to yield a graft of uniform thickness, though this assumption has never been analysed statistically. This study aims to test that assumption in a paediatric population. ⋯ STSG thickness is inconsistent, with a broad spread about a median value. This study provides no data to suggest there are pre-operative predictors of STSG thickness being significantly more or less than that dialled on a powered dermatome.
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Published experience describing the use of Biobrane® for wound management in Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (SJS-TEN) is limited to case reports and case series involving ten or fewer patients. We have used Biobrane® in the care of SJS-TEN since 2000, and the purpose of this study was to review our experience with the application of Biobrane® for wound coverage in SJS-TEN. ⋯ Biobrane® was applied to SJS-TEN subjects with more extensive epidermal detachment, had no significant complications, and generally facilitated epidermal healing in under 2 weeks from application.
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Burn scars are associated with significant morbidity ranging from contractures, pruritus, and disfigurement to psychosocial impairment. Traditional therapies include silicone gel, compression garments, corticosteroid injections, massage therapy, and surgical procedures, however, newer and advanced therapies for the treatment of burn scars have been developed. Lasers, specifically ablative fractional lasers, show potential for the treatment of burn scars. ⋯ Laser therapy is effective for the treatment of burn scar appearance, including measures such as pigmentation, vascularity, pliability, and thickness. Ablative fractional laser therapy, in particular, shows significant potential for the release of contractures allowing for improved range of motion of affected joints. Patients may benefit from the use of lasers in the treatment of burn scars, and the safety profile of lasers allows the benefits of treatment to outweigh the risks. Laser therapy should be included in burn scar treatment protocols as an adjuvant therapy to traditional interventions.
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Comparative Study Observational Study
Total body and hand surface area: Measurements, calculations, and comparisons in ethnically diverse children in South Africa.
The aim was to investigate hand surface as a percentage of body surface area from infancy to 13 years of age using physical measurement and digital planimetry and establish the influence of age, gender, BMI for age and ethnicity, specifically in the South African population. A secondary aim included the development of a template for burn size measurement. ⋯ The potential value of the physical measurement method is that it lends itself to direct measurement during examination of the burnt child. The study showed that there are minor differences between racial groups, gender, BMI and age variations. The clinical relevance of these variations is negligible.