Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Burns are a major global healthcare concern, often complicated by the presence of bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the wounds. Silver-based dressings are commonly used in the treatment of burns but can cause skin irritation and delay healing time. Medical-grade honey (MGH) provides an interesting alternative. ⋯ Furthermore, clinical cases illustrated the effectiveness of MGH therapy in infected burns. Overall, L-Mesitran Soft had similar effects as silver-based products on bacterial load and epidermal regeneration, but outperformed Medihoney. Therefore, supplemented MGH could be used as an effective alternative to silver-based dressings for P. aeruginosa-infected burns.
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Burn injuries remain a significant source of trauma in the United States and disproportionately affect racial and ethnic minorities. Although disparities are well documented in adults, less is known regarding those in pediatric populations. To address this gap in literature, we aim to better characterize burn injuries, inpatient treatments, and post-discharge outcomes in minority pediatric burn patients. ⋯ Minority patients were significantly more likely to undergo laser treatment after discharge (p < 0.01) than White patients. Our study shows minority pediatric patients are at risk for non-intentional burn injuries that undergo surgical management such as skin grafting and longitudinal reconstructive procedures including laser therapy more often. Short-term goals should include facilitating improved physical and psychosocial outcomes in this often-underserved patient population.
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Burns that involve the perineum, buttocks and genitals (PBG) have been associated with more challenging therapeutic needs and worse clinical outcomes. We aimed to investigate whether PBG burns are an independent predictor for mortality, morbidity and complications in a large, heterogenous patient collective and in comparison to patients without PBG burns. ⋯ PBG burns are at risk for prolonged intensive care, hospitalization and complications during treatment. Furthermore, the presence of PBG burns appears to be a risk factor for mortality, irrespective of patient age, TBSA affected and other relevant covariates.
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Commercially available bioethanol-fueled fireplaces are a potential source of burns and are commonly used for home use. The present study aimed to evaluate the quality of life following burn injuries that were caused by bioethanol-related accidents. ⋯ Burns related to bioethanol-fueled fireplaces are rare compared to other typical burn mechanisms. However, as they are used for personal pleasure and interior design, psychological impairment following burn may be even more critical. Detailed education on the use of these fireplaces needs to take place in order to reduce the risk of accidents.
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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) afflicts a significant portion of burn patients. This study aims to analyze the morbidity, prevalence, and treatment of PTSD in the burn population. ⋯ PTSD is not uncommon in the burn population, and those with burns and concomitant PTSD have an increased risk of morbidity. Screening and preventative measures to reduce morbidity and early implementation of care in burned patients with PTSD are indicated.