Surgery
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Recent improvements in survival have stimulated interest in the care of elderly patients with burn injuries. We reviewed 278 patients aged 45 years and older treated during a 10-year period. The survival rate was 80% overall and 67% for patients over 75 years of age. ⋯ Aggressive care for most elderly patients with burn injuries appears justified by the improved outcomes demonstrated. This has increased the difficulty of decisions regarding patient salvability and the allotment of resources. Elderly patients with burn injuries illustrate many contemporary dilemmas in patient care in this era of cost consciousness.