Tranexamic acid reduces inflammation, edema and burn wound conversion in a rodent model

Burn wound conversion is the observed process where superficial partial thickness burns convert into deep partial or full thickness burn injuries. This conversion process often involves surgical excision to achieve timely wound healing. Unfortunately, the pathophysiology of this phenomenon is multifactorial and poorly understood. Thus, a therapeutic intervention that may prevent secondary progression and cell death in burn-injured tissue is desirable. Recent work by our group and others has established that tranexamic acid (TXA) has significant anti-inflammatory properties in addition to its well-known anti-fibrinolytic effects. This study investigates TXA as a novel therapeutic treatment to mitigate burn wound conversion and reduce systemic inflammation. Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to a hot comb burn contact injury. A subset of animals underwent a similar comb burn with an adjacent 30%TBSA contact injury. The interspaces represent the ischemic zones simulating the zone of stasis. The treatment group received injections of TXA (100 mg/kg) immediately after injury and once daily until euthanasia. Animals were harvested for analyses at 6 h and 7 days after injury. Full-thickness biopsies from the ischemic zones and lung tissue were assessed with established histological techniques. Plasma was collected for measurement of damage associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), and liver samples were used to study inflammatory cytokines expression. Treatment with TXA was associated with reduced burn wound conversion and decreased burn-induced systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Lung inflammation and capillary leak were also significantly reduced in TXA treated animals. Future research will elucidate the underlying anti-inflammatory properties of TXA responsible for these findings.

Assessing resuscitation in burn patients with varying degrees of liver disease

We find minimal literature and lack of consensus among burn practitioners over how to resuscitate thermally injured patients with pre-existing liver disease. Our objective was to assess burn severity in patients with a previous history of liver disease. We attempted to stratify resuscitation therapy utilised, using it as an indicator of burn shock severity. We hypothesized that as severity of liver disease increased, more fluid therapy is needed. We retrospectively studied adult patients with a total body surface area (TBSA) of burn greater than or equal to 20% (n = 314). We determined the severity of liver disease by calculating admission Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores and measured resuscitation adequacy via urine output within the first 24 h. We performed stepwise, multivariable linear regression with backward selection to test our hypothesis with α = 0.05 defined a priori. After controlling for important confounders including age, TBSA, baseline serum albumin, total crystalloids, colloids, blood products, diuretics, and steroids given in first 24 h, we found a statistically significant reduction in urine output as MELD score increased (p < 0.000). In our study, severity of liver disease correlated with declining urine output during first 24-hour resuscitation more so than burn size or burn depth. While resuscitation is standardized for all patients, lack of urine output with increased liver disease suggests a new strategy is of benefit. This may involve investigation of alternate markers of adequacy of resuscitation, or developing modified resuscitation protocols for use in patients with liver disease. More investigation is necessary into how resuscitation protocols may best be modified.

Adenosine diphosphate ribosylation factor 6 inhibition protects burn sepsis induced lung injury through preserving vascular integrity and suppressing ASC inflammasome transmission

BACKGROUND

Severe burns are devastating injuries with significant immune dysfunction and result in substantial mortality and morbidity due to sepsis induced organ failure. Acute lung injury is the most common type of organ injury in sepsis, however, the mechanisms of which are poorly understood and effective therapeutic measures are limited. This study is aimed to investigate the effect of a small Guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase), Adenosine diphosphate ribosylation factor 6 (ARF6), on burn sepsis induced lung injury, and discuss the possible mechanisms.

METHODS

Burn sepsis was established in male C57BL/6 mice. Mice were anesthetised by intramuscular injection of ketamine and xylazine hydrochloride, then 30% TBSA full thickness burn followed by sub-eschar injection of lipopolysaccharide. Animals were treated with intraperitoneal injection of a small molecule inhibitor of ARF6: NAV-2729, or vehicle, right after the burn and sepsis stimuli were inflicted. Lung tissues were harvested for histopathological observation and the acute lung injury scores were calculated. Organ permeability, Vascular Endothelial Cadherin (VE-cadherin) expression, inflammatory cytokine levels and myeloperoxidase activity in lung tissues were detected. Rat pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVECs) were stimulated by burn sepsis serum with or without 10 μM NAV-2729. The ARF6 activation, VE-cadherin expression, inflammasome activity, adapter protein apoptosis speck-like protein containing a caspase recruiting domain (ASC) specks and cytokines secretion were determined. Student's t test was used for comparison between two groups. Multiple comparisons among groups were performed by using analysis of variance, with Tukey's test for the post hoc test.

RESULTS

NAV-2729 treatment attenuated burn sepsis induced lung injury and promoted survival of burn septic mice by preserving VE-cadherin expression in endothelial cell adherent junction and limited vascular hyperpermeability in lung tissues. Moreover, inflammatory cytokine expression and inflammatory injury in lung tissues were alleviated. Mechanistically, NAV-2729 enhanced vascular integrity by inhibiting ARF6 activation and restoring VE-cadherin expression in PMVECs. In addition, NAV-2729 inhibited ARF6-dependent phagocytosis of ASC specks, thus preventing inflammation propagation mediated by cell-to-cell transmission of ASC specks.

CONCLUSIONS

ARF6 inhibition preserved vascular integrity by restoring expression of VE-cadherin and suppressed the spread of inflammation by affecting phagocytosis of ASC specks, thus protected against sepsis induced lung injury and improve survival of burn septic animals. The findings of this study implied potential therapeutics by which ARF6 inhibition can protect lung function from septic induced lung injury and improve outcomes in burn sepsis.

Neuropathic Pain After Burn Injury: A Severe and Common Problem in Recovery

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to address the limited understanding of neuropathic pain (NP) among burn survivors by comprehensively examining its prevalence and related factors on a national scale using the Burn Model System (BMS) National Database.

BACKGROUND

NP is a common but underexplored complaint among burn survivors, greatly affecting their quality of life and functionality well beyond the initial injury. Existing data on NP and its consequences in burn survivors are limited to select single-institution studies, lacking a comprehensive national perspective.

METHODS

The BMS National Database was queried to identify burn patients responding to NP-related questions at enrollment, 6 months, 12 months, 2 years, and 5 years postinjury. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were used to explore associations between demographic/clinical characteristics and self-reported NP at different time points.

RESULTS

There were 915 patients included for analysis. At discharge, 66.5% of patients experienced NP in their burn scars. Those with NP had significantly higher Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System 29 (PROMIS-29) pain inference, itch, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance scores and were less able to partake in social roles. Multiple logistic regression revealed male sex, % total body surface area, and moderate-to-severe pain as predictors of NP at 6 months. At 12 months, % total body surface area and moderate-to-severe pain remained significant predictors, while ethnicity and employment status emerged as significant predictors at 24 months.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the significant prevalence of NP in burn patients and its adverse impacts on their physical, psychological, and social well-being. The findings underscore the necessity of a comprehensive approach to NP treatment, addressing both physical symptoms and psychosocial factors.

Physical and psychosocial outcomes among burn-injured people with heterotopic ossification: A burn model system study

INTRODUCTION

Heterotopic ossification (HO), or ectopic bone formation in soft tissue, is a not so rare and poorly understood debilitating sequela of burn injury. Individuals developing HO following burn injuries to their hands often experience reductions in mobility, significant contractures, and joint pain. This study identifies demographic characteristics of individuals who develop HO and compares their physical and psychosocial outcomes to the general burn population.

METHODS

Participant demographics, injury characteristics, and PROMIS-29 scores across three time points (discharge, six- and 12- months after injury) were extracted from the Burn Model System National Longitudinal Database representing participants from 2015-2022. Mixed-effects linear regression models were used to compare PROMIS scores across all three longitudinal measurements. Models were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, HO status, and burn size.

RESULTS

Of the 861 participants with data concerning HO, 33 were diagnosed with HO (3.8% of participants). Most participants with HO were male (n = 24, 73%) and had an average age of 40 + /- 13 years. Participants with HO had significantly larger burn size (49 +/-23% Total Body Surface Area (TBSA)) than those without HO (16 +/-17%). Participants with HO reported significantly worse physical function, depression, pain interference and social integration scores than those without HO. After adjusting for covariables, participants with HO continued to report statistically significantly worse physical function than those without HO. Although physical functioning was consistently lower, the two populations did not differ significantly among psychosocial outcome measures.

CONCLUSIONS

While HO can result in physical limitations, the translation to psychosocial impairments was not evident. Targeted treatment of HO with the goal of maximizing physical function should be a focus of their rehabilitation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2b TYPE OF STUDY: Symptom Prevalence Study.

The impact of infection on length of stay in adult burns: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

The disruption to the immune system and profound metabolic response to burn injury gives rise to a unique susceptibility to infection. Indeed, infection is one of the most frequently encountered post-burns complications placing significant burden on patients and healthcare system. Advancements in burn care have led to marked improvements in burn-related mortality and morbidity; however, scarce hospital resources hamper adequate burn-related care, and patient length of stay (LOS) in hospital is an important drain on such resources. The aim of this review was to assess and evaluate the existing literature relating to the impact of infections on LOS in hospitalised, adult burn patients.

METHODS

Electronic searches were performed in Medline and Embase. Eligible studies were those reporting on LOS and infection in adult burn populations. Articles published before 2000 were excluded to ensure that the analysis was focused on contemporary literature that reflects current, clinical management of burn patients.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies (54,397 burn patients) were included in the review. All studies were retrospective, with the majority undertaken in North America (14 studies). The mean age range was 38-67 years and the majority of patients were male. Inhalation injury was recorded in eleven studies. The most common types of infection included pneumonia, blood stream infections (BSI) and burn wound infections. Overall, there was a trend towards a positive association between infection and LOS.

CONCLUSION

The results of this scoping review provide an overview of the existing literature on the relationship between infection and LOS in adult burn populations. However, significant gaps remain in knowledge which call for further high-quality research. Standardised definitions for the collection of infection data and the use of burns specific infection control guidelines are also critical to understanding and improving patient outcomes.

Frequency, complications, and mortality of inhalation injury in burn patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol

INTRODUCTION

Burns are tissue traumas caused by energy transfer and occur with a variable inflammatory response. The consequences of burns represent a public health problem worldwide. Inhalation injury (II) is a severity factor when associated with burn, leading to a worse prognosis. Its treatment is complex and often involves invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). The primary purpose of this study will be to assess the evidence regarding the frequency and mortality of II in burn patients. The secondary purposes will be to assess the evidence regarding the association between IIs and respiratory complications (pneumonia, airway obstruction, acute respiratory failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome), need for IMV and complications in other organ systems, and highlight factors associated with IIs in burn patients and prognostic factors associated with acute respiratory failure, need for IMV and mortality of II in burn patients.

METHODS

This is a systematic literature review and meta-analysis, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA). PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS/VHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases will be consulted without language restrictions and publication date. Studies presenting incomplete data and patients under 19 years of age will be excluded. Data will be synthesized through continuous (mean and standard deviation) and dichotomous (relative risk) variables and the total number of participants. The means, sample sizes, standard deviations from the mean, and relative risks will be entered into the Review Manager web analysis software (The Cochrane Collaboration).

DISCUSSION

Despite the extensive experience managing IIs in burn patients, they still represent an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis and accurate measurement of its damage are complex, and therapies are essentially based on supportive measures. Considering the challenge, their impact, and their potential severity, IIs represent a promising area for research, needing further studies to understand and contribute to its better evolution. The protocol of this review is registered on the International prospective register of systematic reviews platform of the Center for Revisions and Disclosure of the University of York, United Kingdom (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero), under number RD42022343944.

Parecoxib sodium attenuates acute lung injury following burns by regulating M1/M2 macrophage polarization through the TLR4/NF-κB pathway

High temperature-induced burn injury often leads to an excessive inflammatory cascade resulting in multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, such as acute lung injury (ALI), in addition to skin tissue damage. As a specific COX2 inhibitor, parecoxib sodium suppresses the inflammatory response during burn injury. The effect of parecoxib sodium on ALI induced by burn injury and the associated molecular mechanism still need to be investigated. The role of parecoxib sodium in burn injury-induced ALI through the TLR4/NF-κB pathway was explored in the present study. A burn-induced ALI mouse model was constructed, and M1/M2 macrophages in lung tissue and markers involved in the TLR4/NF-κB signalling pathway were evaluated in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and MH-S mouse alveolar macrophages in vitro. The results indicated that parecoxib sodium attenuated lung injury after burn injury, decreased iNOS and TNF-α expression, increased IL-10 expression in BALF, and regulated the CD86-and CD206-mediated polarization of M1/M2 macrophages in lung tissue along with MH-S mouse alveolar macrophages. The effect of parecoxib sodium might be reversed by a TLR4 agonist. Overall, the results suggested that parecoxib sodium can regulate the polarization of M1/M2 macrophages through the TLR4/NF-κB pathway to attenuate ALI induced by skin burns.

A single-center, open-labeled, randomized, 6-month, parallel-group study to assess the safety and efficacy of allogeneic cultured keratinocyte sheet transplantation for deep second-degree burn wounds: rationale and design of phase I/II clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Burn-related injuries are a major global health issue, causing 180,000 deaths per year. Early debridement of necrotic tissue in association with a split-thickness skin graft is usually administered for some of the 2nd- and 3rd-degree injuries. However, this approach can be complicated by factors such as a lack of proper donor sites. Artificial skin substitutes have attracted much attention for burn-related injuries. Keratinocyte sheets are one of the skin substitutes that their safety and efficacy have been reported by previous studies.

METHODS

Two consecutive clinical trials were designed, one of them is phase I, a non-randomized, open-label trial with 5 patients, and phase II is a randomized and open-label trial with 35 patients. A total number of 40 patients diagnosed with 2nd-degree burn injury will receive allogenic keratinocyte sheet transplantation. The safety and efficacy of allogeneic skin graft with autograft skin transplantation and conventional treatments, including Vaseline dressing and topical antibiotic, will be compared in different wounds of a single patient in phase II. After the transplantation, patients will be followed up on days 3, 7, 10, 14, 21, and 28. In the 3rd and 6th months after the transplantation scar, a wound closure assessment will be conducted based on the Vancouver Scar Scale and the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale.

DISCUSSION

This study will explain the design and rationale of a cellular-based skin substitute for the first time in Iran. In addition, this work proposes this product being registered as an off-the-shelf product for burn wound management in the country.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) IRCT20080728001031N31, 2022-04-23 for phase I and IRCT20080728001031N36, 2024-03-15 for phase II.

The Development and Management of Neck Burn Scar Contracture Recurrence: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION

Burn neck contractures pose a great challenge for reconstructive surgeons. A paucity of literature exist regarding long-term outcomes based on different surgical management strategies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of the treatment of neck burn scar contractures and evaluate surgical strategies according to their long-term effectiveness and associated complications.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to review outcomes of neck contractures release after burn injury. All patients operated on between January 2009 and February 2023 at a single institution were included.

RESULTS

A total of 20 patients developed neck burn scar contracture and were included in this study. The mean age was 32.9 ± 20.3 years. The burn injuries were most commonly thermal (n = 19, 95%). All burn injuries were full-thickness burns, with an average neck defect size of 130.5 ± 106.0 cm2. Overall, 45 surgical scar release procedures were performed on the 20 patients who developed a neck contracture. Patients underwent 1.65 ± 1.04 surgeries on average to address neck contracture. Although 25% of patients only received 1 surgery to treat neck contracture, some patients underwent as many as 8 surgeries. Contracture recurrence (CR) was the most common complication and occurred in 28.9% of the cases. The mean percentage total body surface area did not significantly differ in CR patients (26.7% ± 14.9%) and no-CR patients (44.5% ± 30.2%). However, there was a significant difference (P = 0.01) in the average neck defect size between CR patients (198.5 ± 108.3 cm2) and no-CR patients (81.1 ± 75.1 cm2).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that risk factors for initial burn scar contractures may differ from those associated with CR, highlighting the importance of neck defect size as a predictor. The study also examines various surgical approaches, with Z-plasty showing promise for managing CR. However, the absence of data on neck range of motion is a limitation. This research underscores the complexity of managing CR and emphasizes the need for ongoing postoperative monitoring.

Comparison of the safety and efficacy for different regimens of pharmaco-prophylaxis among severely burned patients: a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication in critically ill patients, including severe burn cases. Burn patients respond differently to medications due to pharmacokinetic changes. This study aims to assess the feasibility and safety of different VTE pharmaco-prophylaxis in patients admitted to the ICU with severe burns.

METHODS

A pilot, open-label randomized controlled trial was conducted on ICU patients with severe burns (BSA ≥ 20%). By using block randomization, patients were allocated to receive high-dose enoxaparin 30 mg q12hours (E30q12), standard-dose enoxaparin 40 mg q24hours (E40q24), or unfractionated heparin (UFH) 5000 Units q8hours. In this study, the primary outcomes assessed were the recruitment and consent rates, as well as bleeding or hematoma at both the donor and graft site. Additionally, secondary measures were evaluated to provide further insights.

RESULTS

Twenty adult patients out of 114 screened were enrolled and received E30q12 (40%), E40q24 (30%), and UFH (30%). The recruitment rate was one patient per month with a 100% consent rate. Donor site bleeding occurred in one patient (16.7%) in the UFH group. On the other hand, graft site bleeding was only reported in one patient (12.5%) who received E30q12. Major bleeding happened in two patients, one in E30q12 and one in the UFH group. Five patients (25.0%) had minor bleeding; two patients (25.0%) received E30q12, two patients E40q24, and one patient UFH. RBC transfusion was needed in four patients, two on E30q12 and two on UFH. Only one patient had VTE, while four patients died in the hospital.

CONCLUSION

The study observed a low recruitment rate but a high consent rate. Furthermore, there were no major safety concerns identified with any of the three pharmacologic prophylaxis regimens that were evaluated.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05237726.

Fluid Resuscitation and Cardiovascular Support in Acute Burn Care

Acute burn injury creates a complex and multifactorial local response which may have systemic sequelae such as hypovolemia, hypothermia, cardiovascular collapse, hypercoagulability, and multi-system organ failure. Understanding the underlying pathophysiology of burn shock, the initial burn triage and assessment, calculation of fluid requirements, and the means of tailoring ongoing interventions to optimize resuscitation are critical for overcoming the wide spectrum of derangements which this condition creates. As a result, this article discusses the various key points in order to garner a greater understanding of these nuances and the optimal pathway to take when tackling these challenging issues.

Non-severe burn injury causes sustained platelet hyperreactivity

Individuals who present to a hospital for treatment of a burn of any magnitude are more frequently hospitalised for ischemic heart disease, even decades after injury. Blood platelets are key mediators of cardiovascular disease. To investigate platelet involvement in post-burn cardiovascular risk, platelet reactivity was assessed in patients at 2- and 6-weeks after non-severe (TBSA < 20%) burn injury, and in a murine model 30 days after 8% TBSA full-thickness burn injury. Platelets were stimulated with canonical agonists and function reported by GPIIb/IIIa PAC1-binding site, CD62P expression, and formation of monocyte-platelet aggregates. In vivo thrombosis in a modified Folts model of vascular injury was assessed. Burn survivors had elevated frequencies of circulating monocyte-platelet aggregates, and platelets were hyperreactive, primarily to collagen stimulation. Burn plasma did not cause hyper-reactivity when incubated with control platelets. Platelets from burn injured mice also demonstrated increased response to collagen peptides but did not show any change in thrombosis following vascular injury. This study demonstrates the persistence of a small but significant platelet hyperreactivity following burn injury. Although our data does not suggest this heightened platelet sensitivity modulates thrombosis following vascular injury, the contribution of sub-clinical platelet hyperreactivity to accelerating atherogenesis merits further investigation.

Comparing the antibacterial and healing properties of medical-grade honey and silver-based wound care products in burns

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. This study investigated the antimicrobial effects and possible cytotoxicity of L-Mesitran Soft (MGH-gel) and its individual components, Medihoney (Manuka), Flammazine (silver sulphadiazine), and silver nitrate (AgNO3) in an ex vivo human burn wound model. Bacterial survival and wound healing parameters, including re-epithelialization and keratinocyte proliferation were assessed. L-Mesitran, Flammazine, and AgNO3 reduced P. aeruginosa numbers below detection levels. L-Mesitran Soft exhibited a significantly stronger antimicrobial effect compared to Medihoney. The individual components of L-Mesitran contributed significantly to its antibacterial efficacy, thus suggesting synergistic activities. Moreover, L-Mesitran, Flammazine, and AgNO3 slightly inhibited re-epithelialization while Medihoney treatment resulted in a complete lack of re-epithelialization and keratinocyte proliferation. 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.

How to evaluate scar colour after burn injuries - A clinical comparison of the Mexameter® and the subjective scar assessment (POSAS/VSS)

INTRODUCTION

Scarring after burn injuries remains one of the major challenges in burn medicine and is the subject of current research. Accurate and high-quality assessment of scars is needed to enable exact outcome evaluation of different treatments. Our aim was to evaluate the most common subjective scar evaluation scores-the POSAS (Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale) and VSS (Vancouver Scar Scale)-in comparison with the objective device Mexameter® for colour evaluation.

METHODS

A prospective monocentre study was performed, which included 120 examined scar areas of 60 patients with third degree burns who had received skin grafts between 1975 and 2018 with a total burned surface area (TBSA) > 2%. Two different scar areas in comparison with one healthy skin area concerning 'colour', 'pigmentation', and 'vascularization' were evaluated by the Mexameter® MX 18, the OSAS, and the VSS by the same examiner, as well as the PSAS by the patient.

RESULTS

The mean TBSA of the 60 patients was 24.3%. In the OSAS, 61% of the scars were evaluated as 'hyper-', 19% as 'hypo-', and 19% as 'mix-pigmented'. Furthermore, 65% of the scars were estimated as highly vascularized. In the Mexameter®, the melanin index values of the scar areas compared to the healthy skin areas showed a small difference of 12 (p < 0.05). The mean difference of erythema between the scar and the healthy skin areas was 84 (p < 0.001). For the Mexameter®, moderate correlations were found when comparing 'erythema' with the OSAS category 'vascularization' (r = 0.33, p < 0.05) and 'melanin' with the OSAS parameter 'pigmentation' (r = 0.28, p < 0.05). When comparing the Mexameter® measurements to the OSAS questionnaire, 27% of the scars were wrongly evaluated as 'hyperpigmented' by the observer and 21% as 'hypervascularized', while showing low measurements in the device. Additionally, a novel Mexameter® ordinal scare scale was calculated.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we were able to show on a relatively large patient population that with the Mexameter®, the subjectivity of the scar colour assessment by examiner/patient can be overcome, but precise differentiation can still be ensured with subjective evaluation tools. We further introduced a novel Mexameter® Scar Scale. It is necessary to further investigate the vast range of objective devices and develop scar panels for with an incorporation of objective and subjective devices to further improve reliability with reduced bias in terms of scar assessment.

Cutaneous functional units prediction in outcomes of early and intensive splinting following palmar burn injury in young children: a prospective study

BACKGROUND

Palmar burn injuries are common in young children and can result in contracture.

METHODS

A prospective longitudinal study describes outcomes of palm and digit extension splint use following burn in 75 children (83 hands) aged < 5 years and determines whether specific cutaneous functional units (CFUs) are associated with early signs of contracture (ESC). Outcomes were assessed up to 9-18 months following burn. Routine clinical data was collected at therapy reviews.

RESULTS

Children were splinted > 12 h/day for a mean of 158 days following burn. The mean time to splint cessation was 264 days following burn. Fourteen hands developed ESC (17%): 12 hands had full ROM restored following conservative management, 2 hands (3%) progressed to contracture. Hands that developed ESC had greater healing time (p = 0.002), greater number of CFUs affected (p < 0.001), and greater number of immediate first webspace and extended first webspace CFUs affected (p = 0.002, p < 0.001 respectively). ESC risk increases for each day to heal (odds ratio [OR] 1.1, 95% CI 1.0-1.2) and each CFU in extended first webspace (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.5-5.0).

CONCLUSION

Early and intensive splinting following palmar burn results in excellent ROM. Burns involving more CFUs or the first webspace are associated with ESC.

Synchronous carcinoma and sarcoma in a burn scar: a treatment conundrum

Marjolijn's ulcer is a malignant ulcer in a burn scar. Types of malignancy are squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. Soft tissue sarcoma case reports indicate only one type of cancer. We present a patient in her 60s with a 10-year-old burn scar developing a biopsy-proven squamous cell carcinoma on the lateral aspect of the left thigh with metastatic superficial inguinal node. A wide excision and grafting of ulcer with ilioinguinal dissection done on left side. On the 12th postoperative day 2, subcutaneous swellings adjacent to the grafted area developed, on biopsy revealed to be pleomorphic sarcoma. PET CT scan revealed tumour deposits in the muscles of the left lower limb, liver and lung. There are no case reports of synchronous carcinoma and sarcoma in a burn scar. The case is reported for its rarity and the decision-making dilemma.

The impact of ulinastatin on wound infection and healing in patients with burn wounds: A meta-analysis

Burn injuries result in localised tissue damage and precipitate systemic responses; routine clinical treatments, which typically include metabolic nutritional support and anti-infection therapies, do not yield optimal outcomes. Therefore, we aimed to systematically evaluate the effects of ulinastatin on wound infection and healing in patients with burns to provide reliable evidence-based recommendations for burn treatment. An electronic search of the Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Wanfang, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases, supplemented by manual searches, was conducted from database inception to October 2023 to collect randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the efficacy of ulinastatin for the treatment of burns. Two researchers screened all retrieved articles according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria; the included studies were evaluated for quality, and the relevant data were extracted. Stata 17.0 software was employed for data analysis. Overall, 8 RCTs with 803 patients were included, with 404 and 399 in the ulinastatin and conventional treatment groups, respectively. The analysis revealed that wound infections (odds ratio [OR] = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.02-0.35, p = 0.001) and complications (OR = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.10-0.42, p < 0.001) were significantly lower, and wound healing time (standardised mean differences [SMD] = -1.31, 95% CI: -2.05 to -0.57, p = 0.001) was significantly shorter, in the ulinastatin groups than in the control group. This meta-analysis revealed that ulinastatin can effectively reduce the incidence of wound infections and complications and significantly shorten the duration of wound healing in patients with burns, thereby promoting early recovery in these patients.

Upregulation of MAOA in the hippocampus results in delayed depressive-like behaviors in burn mice

OBJECTIVE

To observe depressive-like behavior and hippocampus monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) changes in burned mice.

METHODS

We tested depression and anxiety like behaviors of burn C57 mice with the sucrose preference test, forced swimming test (FST), open field test and elevated plus maze test and then detected the MAOA content and MAOA gene transcriptional levels in the hippocampus with western blot analysis and real-time quantitative PCR analysis. We then sought to reverse depressive-like behavior of burned mice with an MAOA inhibitor.

RESULTS

(1) Mice showed depressive and anxiety like behaviors one week after they were burned; (2) The content of MAOA in the hippocampus of burned mice was significantly higher than that in control mice (P<0.05); (3) MAOA gene transcription in the hippocampus of burned mice was significantly increased (MAOA mRNA was increased, P<0.05); (4) treatment with a MAOA inhibitor (phenelzine) significantly increased the sucrose preference rate and decreased FST immobility time in burned mice, and also decreased elevated expression of MAOA in the hippocampus of burned mice.

CONCLUSION

Burned mice showed "delayed" depressive-like behavior combined with a degree of anxiety; this phenomenon is likely associated with the increase in MAOA expression in the hippocampus.

Effect of quality nursing care on wound pain and anxiety in burn patients: A meta-analysis

To systematically evaluate the effects of quality nursing care on wound pain and anxiety in burn patients. Computerised searches of PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Embase, Wanfang, China Biomedical Literature Database and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on the application of quality nursing care to burn patients were carried out from database inception to October 2023. Literature was screened and evaluated by two researchers based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data were extracted from the final included literature. Stata 17.0 software was employed for data analysis. Overall, 15 RCTs and 1115 burn patients were included, including 563 and 552 in the quality care and routine care groups. It was found that, compared with routine care, burn patients who implemented quality care had significantly less wound pain (SMD: -1.79, 95% CI: -2.22 to -1.36, p < 0.001), anxiety (SMD: -2.71. 95% CI: -3.49 to -1.92, p < 0.001) and depression (SMD: -1.74, 95% CI: -2.35 to -1.14, p < 0.001) levels were significantly reduced post-trauma.

An outbreak of multi-drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii on a burns ICU and its control with multi-faceted containment measures

BACKGROUND

Patients in burns centres are at high risk of acquiring multi-drug-resistant organisms (MDROs) due to the reduced skin barrier and long hospital stay.

METHODS

This study reports the investigation and control of an outbreak of MDR Acinetobacter baumannii in a burns centre. The 27 patients hospitalized in the centre during the outbreak were screened regularly, and a total of 132 environmental samples were analysed to identify a potential source. Fourier-transform infra-red (FT-IR) spectroscopy and multi-locus sequence typing were applied to characterize the outbreak strain.

RESULTS

Between August and November 2022, the outbreak affected eight patients, with 11 infections and three potentially related fatal outcomes. An interdisciplinary and multi-professional outbreak team implemented a bundle strategy with repetitive admission stops, isolation precaution measures, patient screenings, enhanced cleaning and disinfection, and staff education. FT-IR spectroscopy suggested that the outbreak started from a patient who had been repatriated 1 month previously from a country with high prevalence of MDR A. baumannii. Environmental sampling did not identify a common source. Acquisition of the outbreak strain was associated with a higher percentage of body surface area with burn lesions ≥2a [per percent increase: odds ratio (OR) 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.99-1.12; P=0.09], and inversely associated with a higher nurse-to-patient ratio (per 0.1 increase: OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.10-1.12; P=0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

Burn patients with a higher percentage of body surface area with burn lesions ≥2a are at high risk of colonization and infection due to MDROs, particularly during periods of high workload. A multi-faceted containment strategy can successfully control outbreaks due to MDR A. baumannii in a burns centre.

Topical Noneuphoric Phytocannabinoid Elixir 14 Reduces Inflammation and Mitigates Burn Progression

INTRODUCTION

Thermal injuries are caused by exposure to a wide variety of agents including heat, electricity, radiation, chemicals, and friction. Early intervention can decrease injury severity by preventing excess inflammation and mitigating burn wound progression for improved healing outcomes. Previous studies have demonstrated that cannabinoids can trigger anti-inflammatory responses and promote wound closure. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate whether a topical application of Noneuphoric Phytocannabinoid Elixir 14 (NEPE14) containing a full complement of phytocannabinoids (< 0.3% delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or cannabidiol) and other phytochemicals would mitigate burn wound progression in the treatment of deep partial-thickness burn wounds.

METHODS

Deep partial-thickness burns were created on the dorsum of four anesthetized pigs and treated with NEPE14, Vehicle control, Silverlon, or gauze. The burns were assessed on postburn days 4, 7, and 14. Assessments consisted of digital photographs, Laser-Speckle imagery (blood perfusion), MolecuLight imagery (qualitative bacterial load), and biopsies for histology and immunohistochemistry (interleukin six and tumor necrosis factor-α).

RESULTS

Topical treatment with NEPE14 significantly (P < 0.001) decreased inflammation (interleukin six and tumor necrosis factor-α) in comparison to control groups. It was also demonstrated that the reduction in inflammation led to mitigation of burn wound progression. In terms of wound healing and presence of bacteria, no statistically significant differences were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Topical treatment of deep partial-thickness burns with NEPE14 decreased wound inflammation and mitigated burn wound progression in comparison to control treatments.

Global perspectives on risk factors for major joint burn contractures: A literature review

Contractures are a frequent consequence of burn injuries, yet our knowledge of associated risk factors is limited. This paper provides an extensive review of relevant literature from both High-Income Countries (HICs) and Low-Middle Income Countries (LMICs). Ninety-four papers (up to June 2019) and eight subsequent publications (up to March 2022) were included, 76% of which were from HICs. The majority of publications were either descriptive studies (4 from HICs, 9 from LMICs) or papers citing putative risk factors (37 from HICs, 10 from LMICs). Seventeen publications (all from HICs) reported on the effects of individual non-surgical therapeutic interventions, often with conflicting results. Two published systematic reviews emphasised the poor quality of evidence available. Only fifteen studies (3 from LMICs) examined potential contracture risk factors with statistical comparisons of outcomes; significant findings from these included demographic, burn, comorbidities, and treatment risk factors. LMIC papers included socioeconomic and healthcare system factors as potential risks for contracture; these were rarely considered in HIC publications. Methodological issues identified from this review of literature included differences in contracture definitions, populations studied, standards of care, joints included and the timing and nature of contracture assessments.This review is the first to collate existing knowledge on risk factors for burn contractures from both HIC and LMIC settings, revealing a surprising lack of robust evidence for many accepted risk factors. In LMICs, where burns are particularly common, universal health provision is lacking and specialist burn care is both scarce and difficult to access; consequently, socioeconomic factors may have more immediate impact on contracture outcomes than specific burn treatments or therapies. Much more work is indicated to fully understand the relative impacts of risk factors in different settings so that context-appropriate contracture prevention strategies can be developed.

Complications Following Tissue Expander-Based Reconstruction in Pediatric Burn Injuries: A Retrospective Analysis

BACKGROUND

Tissue expansion has been widely used to reconstruct soft tissue defects following burn injuries in pediatric patients, allowing for satisfactory cosmetic and functional outcomes. Factors impacting the success of tissue expander (TE)-based reconstruction in these patients are poorly understood. Herein, we aim to determine the risk factors for postoperative complications following TE-based reconstruction in pediatric burn patients.

METHODS

A retrospective review of pediatric patients who underwent TE placement for burn reconstruction from 2006 to 2019 was performed. Primary outcomes were major complications (TE explantation, extrusion, replacement, flap necrosis, unplanned reoperation, readmission) and wound complications (surgical site infection and wound dehiscence). Descriptive statistics were calculated. The association between primary outcomes, patient demographics, burn characteristics, and TE characteristics was assessed using the chi-squared, Fisher's exact, and Mann-Whitney U tests.

RESULTS

Of 28 patients included in the study, the median [interquartile range (IQR)] age was 6.5 (3.3-11.8) years, with a follow-up of 12 (7-32) months. The majority were males [n = 20 (71%)], Black patients [n = 11 (39%)], and experienced burns due to flames [n = 78 (29%)]. Eleven (39%) patients experienced major complications, most commonly TE premature explantation [n = 6 (21%)]. Patients who experienced major complications, compared to those who did not, had a significantly greater median (IQR) % total body surface area (TBSA) [38 (27-52), 10 (5-19), P = 0.002] and number of TEs inserted [2 (2-3), 1 (1-2), P = 0.01]. Ten (36%) patients experienced wound complications, most commonly surgical site infection following TE placement [n = 6 (21%)]. Patients who experienced wound complications, compared to those who did not, had a significantly greater median (IQR) %TBSA [35 (18-45), 19 (13-24), P = 0.02].

CONCLUSION

Pediatric burn injuries involving greater than 30% TBSA and necessitating an increasing number of TEs were associated with worse postoperative complications following TE-based reconstruction.

Thromboembolic events in burn patients: An analysis of risk factors and different anticoagulants

BACKGROUND

Burn patients are in a state of activated coagulation, putting them at risk for thromboembolic events. Additionally, certain patient-related factors are associated with an increased risk of thrombus formation. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of thromboembolic events and identify potential risk factors, including patient characteristics, surgical treatment, anticoagulation strategies, and laboratory parameters.

METHODS

A single-centre retrospective cohort study was conducted on all patients with burns treated between 2002 and 2020. Medical reports of patients with and without thromboembolic events were descriptively analysed. The association of time to thromboembolic events with total body surface area (TBSA) was assessed by cause-specific Cox models adjusted for different covariates. The association of time to thromboembolic events with type and dosage of anticoagulants was assessed using a cause-specific Cox proportional hazards model with time-dependent covariates, applied to a matched subset of patients.

RESULTS

The incidence of thromboembolic events was 8.1% in a cohort of 642 patients. We found a statistically significant increase in the hazard for thromboembolic events by a factor of 1.02 (95% CI 1.00 to 1.03; P ≤ 0.05) per percent increase in TBSA. We identified former alcohol abuse (HR=2.54, CI 1.33 to 4.84, P = 0.005) and higher body mass index (HR=1.06, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.12, P = 0.046) as potential risk factors for the development of thromboembolic events. We further noted inadequate median anti-Factor-X activity levels and elevated C-reactive protein and procalcitonin levels at the time of the event.

CONCLUSION

Our results showed a moderate risk of thromboembolic events among burn patients, underlining the importance of close monitoring with regard to thrombus formation. In particular, patients with higher TBSA, alcohol abuse and BMI may be evaluated more regularly for thromboembolic events. Anti-Factor-X activity levels should be determined regularly and therapy should be adjusted if necessary.

Pain Management in Burn Patients: Pharmacologic Management of Acute and Chronic Pain

Burn-related pain can contribute to decreased quality of life and long-term morbidity, limiting functional recovery. Burn-related pain should be assessed first by chronicity (acute or chronic), followed by type (nociceptive, neuropathic, nociplastic), to guide multimodal pharmacologic management in a stepwise algorithm approach. Combination therapies increase the efficacy and reduce toxicity by offering a multimodal approach that targets different receptors in the peripheral nervous system and central nervous system. When multimodal pharmacologic management is ineffective, etiologies of burn-related pain amenable to surgical interventions must be considered. It is important to know when to refer a patient to pain management.

Cutaneous burn injury represents a major risk factor for the development of traumatic ectopic bone formation following blast-related extremity injury

Blast-related traumatic heterotopic ossification (tHO) impacts clinical outcomes in combat-injured patients, leading to delayed wound healing, inflammatory complications, and reduced quality of life. Blast injured patients often have significant burns. This study investigated whether a partial thickness thermal burn injury exacerbates blast-related tHO in a clinically relevant polytrauma animal model. Adult male Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to an established model involving a whole-body blast overpressure exposure (BOP), complex extremity trauma followed by hind limb amputation (CET) followed by the addition of a 10 % total body surface area (TBSA) second degree thermal burn (BU). Micro-CT scans on post-operative day 56 showed a significant increase in HO volume in the CET + BU as compared to the CET alone injury group (p < .0001; 22.83 ± 3.41 mm3 vs 4.84 ± 5.77 mm3). Additionally, CET + BU concomitant with BOP significantly increased HO (p < .0001; 34.95 ± 7.71 mm3) as compared to CET + BU alone, confirming BOP has a further synergistic effect. No HO was detectable in rats in the absence of CET. Serum analysis revealed similar significant elevated (p < .0001) levels of pro-inflammatory markers (Cxcl1 and Il6) at 6 h post-injury (hpi) in the CET + BU and BOP + CET + BU injury groups as compared to naïve baseline values. Real-time qPCR demonstrated similar levels of chondrogenic and osteogenic gene expression in muscle tissue at the site of injury at 168 hpi in both the CET + BU and BOP+CET + BU injury groups. These results support the hypothesis that a 10 % TBSA thermal burn markedly enhances tHO following acute musculoskeletal extremity injury in the presence and absence of blast overpressure. Furthermore, the influence of BOP on tHO cannot be accounted for either in regards to systemic inflammation induced from remote injury or inflammatory-osteo-chondrogenic expression changes local to the musculoskeletal trauma, suggesting that another mechanism beyond BOP and BU synergistic effects are at play. Therefore, these findings warrant future investigations to explore other mechanisms by which blast and burn influence tHO, and testing prophylactic measures to mitigate the local and systemic inflammatory effects of these injuries on development of HO.

Fourteen-Year Experience in Burn Eyelid Reconstruction and Complications Recurrence: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Loss of vision and other ocular defects are a concern with eyelid burn sequelae. This most commonly progresses from eyelid contracture to cicatricial ectropion and lagophthalmos. When left untreated, these may lead to exposure keratitis, ulceration, infection, perforation, and loss of vision. In the case of full-thickness eyelid burns, release and grafting are required. However, there is a paucity of studies on outcomes in eyelid burn surgery treatment, despite concern for permanent ocular damage or loss of vision. The aim of the study is to describe the complication rates in burn eyelid reconstruction at a single center for 14 years.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed of all patients who had sustained eyelid burns and required reconstruction between April 2009 and February 2023. Medical records were obtained from patients' charts. Collected data include demographics, medical history, type of injury, indication for surgery, procedure performed, and complications.

RESULTS

A total of 14 patients and 25 eyelids underwent eyelid reconstruction of the 901 total patients with burn-related injuries requiring plastic surgery reconstruction. These patients underwent 54 eyelid surgeries with a mean follow-up time of 13.1 ± 17.1 months. Patients were 71% men and 29% women, with a mean age of 45.1 ± 15.6 years. In 53.7% (n = 29) of the cases, the simultaneous reconstruction of both the upper and lower eyelids was necessary. The reconstruction of the upper and lower eyelid alone represented a smaller percentage (25.9% and 20.4%, respectively). On average, the patients received 3.9 ± 3.5 eyelid surgeries. The overall complication rate was 53.7% (n = 29). The most common complication was ectropion (42.6%, n = 23). Other complications included eye injury (25.9%, n = 14), lagophthalmos (24.1%, n = 13), local infection (7.4%, n = 4), and graft loss (5.6%, n = 3).

CONCLUSION

Periorbital burns represent a major challenge that may require complex surgical intervention. Full-thickness skin graft remains the standard of care for patients with eyelid burns. However, there is a high incidence of ectropion that may require reoperation. Further studies examining the conditions of successful eyelid burn procedures may provide guidance on when patients may benefit from eyelid reconstruction during their burn treatment.

Chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease reduce survival rates after burn injury: A retrospective study over 20 years

BACKGROUND

The Abbreviated Burn Severity Index and comparable scores are used to assess the probability of survival in burned patients. These scores may be useful during the initial management of the patient and in addition to the clinical evaluation. As current models do not include the influence of chronic diseases, we evaluated the impact of comorbidities on survival probability, aiming to improve the existing scoring systems and survival probability accuracy further.

METHODS

In this retrospective single-center study, patient data from a center for Severe Burn Injury were collected. Over a period of 20 years (2000-2019), a total of 1,193 patients were recorded. The influence of comorbidities (chronic kidney disease, diabetes mellitus type II, and cardiovascular diseases) on the survival probability was analyzed using regression models. These analyses were stratified for sex and period.

RESULTS

Pre-existing chronic kidney disease, as well as pre-existing cardiovascular disease, had a significant influence on the survival of patients. For chronic kidney disease, the influence was stronger in men than in women. Women were more likely to survive a burn injury with a history of chronic renal insufficiency. An improved Abbreviated Burn Severity Index model, which assigns an additional point for chronic kidney disease, best-described survival probability in our patient cohort.

CONCLUSION

Cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease both have an impact on the survival probability of severely burned patients, but this impact is more severe for chronic kidney disease. An additional Abbreviated Burn Severity Index point for chronic kidney disease would be a proposed adaptation to predict the outcome of burn patients better.

Post-traumatic stress disorder in burn patients - A large database analysis

INTRODUCTION

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.

METHODS

Using the TriNetX database, we identified burned patients > 18 years of age without (A) or with (B) a PTSD diagnosis. Patients were then stratified by percent of total body surface area (TBSA) burned. Morbidity and mortality was analyzed in each cohort. Prevalence and pharmacologic treatments for PTSD were analyzed from 2002 to 2022.

RESULTS

PTSD incidence increased from 2.4% (n = 2281) in patients with < 10% to 3.1% (n = 542) in 10-30%, 7.4% (n = 285) in 30-59%, and 5.3% (n = 90) in > 60% TBSA burned. In patients with < 60% TBSA burned, PTSD diagnosis increased the risk of depression (p = <0.0003) and anxiety (p = <0.0001). In those with < 30% TBSA burned, PTSD diagnosis also increased risk of insomnia (p = <0.0001) and pruritus (p = 0.0211 for TBSA <10% and 0.0059 for TBSA 10-29%). PTSD diagnosis was associated with a decreased risk of mortality in patients with > 30% TBSA burned (p = 0.0179 for TBSA 30-59% and p = 0.0089 for TBSA >60%). From 2002 to 2022, the prevalence of PTSD in all burn patients was relatively stable between 2.2% and 3.2%. We found an increase in the use of serotonergic agents and prazosin for the treatment of PTSD during this timeframe.

CONCLUSION

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.

Accuracy of remote burn scar evaluation via live video-conferencing technology

OBJECTIVE

Telemedicine in outpatient burn care, particularly in burn scar management, may provide cost-effective care and comes highly rated by patients. However, an effective scar scale using both video and photographic elements has not been validated. The purpose of this study is to test the reliability of the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) using live video-conferencing.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted with individuals with healed burn scars in Kathmandu, Nepal. Three independent observers assessed 85 burn scars from 17 subjects, using the Observer portion to evaluate vascularity, pigmentation, thickness, relief, pliability, surface area, and overall opinion. The on-site observer was physically present with the subjects and used a live videoconferencing application to show the scars to two remote observers in the United States. Subjects used the Patient portion to evaluate the scar that they believed appeared the worst appearance and had the greatest impact on function.

RESULTS

The single-rater reliability of the Observer scale was acceptable (ICC>0.70) in overall opinion, thickness, pliability, and surface area. The average-rater reliability for three observers was acceptable (ICC>0.70) for all parameters except for vascularity. When comparing Patients' and Observers' overall opinion scores, patients consistently reported worse opinion.

CONCLUSIONS

Evaluation of burn scars using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale can be accurately performed via live videoconferencing and presents an opportunity to expand access to burn care to rural communities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where patients face significant access barriers to appropriate follow-up care.

An eighteen-year review of intensive care requirements for paediatric burns in a regional burns service

INTRODUCTION

Advances in burns management have reduced mortality. Consequently, efficient resource management plays an increasingly important role in improving paediatric burns care. This study aims to assess the support requirements and outcomes of paediatric burns patients admitted to a burns centre intensive care unit in comparison to established benchmarks in burns care.

METHOD

A retrospective review of burns patients under the age of 16 years old, admitted to a regional burns service intensive care unit between March 1998 and March 2016 was conducted.

RESULTS

Our analysis included 234 patients, with the percentage of TBSA affected by burn injury ranging from 1.5% to 95.0%. The median (IQR) %TBSA was 20.0% (11.0-30.0), and the observed mortality rate was 2.6% (6/234). The median (IQR) length of stay was 0.7 days/%TBSA burn (0.4-1.2), 17.9% (41/229) required circulatory support and 2.6% (6/234) required renal replacement. Mortality correlated with smoke inhalation injury (P < 0.001), %TBSA burn (P = 0.049) and complications (P = 0.004) including infections (P = 0.013).

CONCLUSIONS

Among children with burn injuries who require intensive care, the presence of inhalational injury and the diagnosis of infection are positively correlated with mortality. Understanding the requirements for organ support can facilitate a more effective allocation of resources within a burns service.

[Analysis of epidemiological characteristics and risk factors of catheter-associated urinary tract infections in patients with perineal and/or hip burns]

Objective: To explore the epidemiological characteristics and risk factors of catheter-associated urinary tract infections in patients with perineal and/or hip burns. Methods: This study was a retrospective case series study. From January 2018 to December 2022, 260 patients with perineal and/or hip burns and urinary catheters indwelling who met the inclusion criteria were admitted to the Department of Burns and Wound Repair of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, including 192 males and 68 females, aged 20-93 years. The total incidence of catheter-associated urinary tract infections in patients with perineal and/or hip burns, the detection of pathogenic bacteria, and the resistance of major Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria to commonly used antimicrobial drugs in clinic were recorded. According to whether catheter-associated urinary tract infection occurred or not, the patients were divided into infection group (43 cases) and non-infection group (217 cases). The basic conditions including gender, age, total burn area, depth of perineal burn, depth of hip burn, and burn site on admission, complications of diabetes mellitus, inhalation injury, and hypoproteinaemia, invasive operations including tracheotomy and non-perineal/hip debridement/skin transplantation surgery, duration of catheter retention, number of urethral catheterization, and bladder irrigation of patients between the two groups were compared, and the independent risk factors influencing the occurrence of catheter-associated urinary tract infections in patients with perineal and/or hip burns were screened. Results: The total incidence of catheter-associated urinary tract infections in patients with perineal and/or hip burns in this study was 16.5% (43/260). The pathogens detected were predominantly Gram-negative, followed by fungi; the main Gram-negative bacterium was Klebsiella pneumoniae, and the main Gram-positive bacterium was Enterococcus faecalis. The resistance rates of Klebsiella pneumoniae to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, amitraz, amikacin, ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone, and levofloxacin were higher than 70.0%, the resistance rates of Klebsiella pneumoniae to cefoxitin, cefoperazone/sulbactam, cefepime, meropenem, imipenem, and piperacillin/tazobactam ranged from 56.3% to 68.8%, and the resistance rates of Klebsiella pneumoniae to ceftazidime and tigecycline were lower than 50.0%. The resistance rates of Enterococcus faecalis to ciprofloxacin and penicillin were both 85.7%, the resistance rates of Enterococcus faecalis to erythromycin, clindamycin, moxifloxacin, and tetracycline ranged from 14.3% to 57.1%, and the resistance rates of Enterococcus faecalis to linezolid, tigecycline, and vancomycin were all 0. The differences were statistically significant between the two groups in terms of gender, status of complication of hypoproteinaemia, depth of perineal burn, status of non-perineal/hip debridement/skin transplantation surgery, status of bladder irrigation, number of urethral catheterization, and duration of catheter retention of patients (with χ2 values of 7.80, 4.85, 10.68, 9.11, and 16.48, respectively, and Z values of -4.88 and -5.42, respectively, P<0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the age, total burn area, complications of diabetes mellitus and inhalation injury, burn site, depth of hip burns, and status of tracheotomy of patients between the two groups (P>0.05). Multifactorial logistic regression analysis showed that gender, deep partial-thickness perineal burns, non-perineal/hip debridement/skin transplantation surgery, bladder irrigation, and duration of catheter retention were the independent risk factors for catheter-associated urinary tract infections in patients with perineal and/or hip burns (with odds ratios of 2.86, 2.63, 2.79, 2.34, and 1.04, respectively, with 95% confidence intervals of 1.21-6.73, 1.03-6.71, 1.03-7.59, 1.05-5.22, and 1.02-1.06, respectively, P<0.05). Conclusions: The incidence of catheter-associated urinary tract infections is high in patients with perineal and/or hip burns, with Klebsiella pneumoniae as the predominant pathogenic bacteria having a high resistance rate to commonly used antimicrobial drugs in clinic. Gender, deep partial-thickness perineal burns, non-perineal/hip debridement/skin transplantation surgery, bladder irrigation, and duration of catheter retention are the independent risk factors for catheter-associated urinary tract infections in patients with perineal and/or hip burns.

[Clinical diagnosis and treatment of 14 cases of scar cancer ulcer wound on head and face]

Objective

To analyze the clinical characteristics of scar cancer ulcer wound of head and face, and to investigate its diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

The clinical data of 14 patients with head and facial scar cancer ulcer wounds who met the selection criteria and admitted between January 2021 and March 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 8 males and 6 females. The age of onset ranged from 21 to 81 years with an average age of 61.6 years. The incubation period ranged from 1 month to 70 years, with a median of 4 years. Site of the disease included 7 cases of head, 6 cases of maxillofacial region, and 1 case of neck region. Injury factors included trauma in 5 cases, scratch in 5 cases, scalding in 2 cases, burn in 1 case, and needle puncture in 1 case. Pathological results showed squamous cell carcinoma in 9 cases, basal cell carcinoma in 3 cases, sebaceous adenocarcinoma in 1 case, papillary sweat duct cystadenoma combined with tubular apocrine sweat gland adenoma in 1 case. There was 1 case of simple extensive tumor resection, 1 case of extensive tumor resection and skin grafting repair, 7 cases of extensive tumor resection and local flap repair, and 5 cases of extensive tumor resection and free flap repair.

Results

All the 14 patients were followed up 16-33 months (mean, 27.8 months). Two patients (14.29%) had scar cancer ulcer wound recurrence, of which 1 patient recurred at 2 years after 2 courses of postoperative chemotherapy, and was still alive after oral traditional Chinese medicine treatment. One patient relapsed at 1 year after operation and died after 2 courses of chemotherapy. One patient underwent extensive resection of the left eye and periocular tumor and the transfer and repair of the chimaeric muscle axial flap with the perforating branch of the descending branch of the left lateral circumflex femoral artery, but the incision healing was poor after operation, and healed well after anti-infection and debridement suture. The wounds of other patients with scar cancer ulcer did not recur, and the wounds healed well.

Conclusion

Scar cancer ulcer wound of the head and face is common in the middle-aged and elderly male, and the main pathological type is squamous cell carcinoma. Local extensive resection, skin grafting, or flap transfer repair are the main treatment methods. Early active treatment of wounds after various injuries to avoid scar repeated rupture and infection is the foundamental prevention of scar cancer.

Fusariosis in burn patients: A systematic review of case reports

Burns can cause skin damage, facilitating the entry of fungi and other microorganisms into the body, leading to infections. Fusarium is a fungus capable of infecting individuals with burn injuries. Diagnosing and treating Fusarium infections in burn patients can be challenging due to the manifestation of nonspecific symptoms. This study aims to investigate case reports and case series from published literature describing Fusarium infection in burned patients, in order to assess treatment regimens, clinical outcomes, and make recommendations for future management. We conducted searches on Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Medline for all case reports and case series containing keywords 'Burn', 'Burns', 'Burned', 'Fusarium', or 'Fusariosis' in the title or abstract. All burn patients who developed Fusarium fungal infections between January 1974 and March 2023 were included in the study. Demographic and clinical data were analyzed retrospectivity. The final analysis incorporates 24 case reports encompassing a total of 87 burn patients with Fusarium infection. Patient ages ranged from one to 85 years, with the majority being male (53%). The median percentage of burn surface area was 78%, and the skin in the face, upper limbs, and lower limbs were the most commonly infected sites. Fungal infections appeared around 10 days after the burn injury on average. The majority of the patients were identified through culture or histopathology. The Fusarium dimerum species complex, which was found in nine patients, was the most frequently identified Fusarium species complex. Amphotericin B was the most preferred treatment drug, followed by voriconazole, and 62% of patients underwent debridement. In our study, 23 patients (37%) died from fungal infections. Implementing early and effective treatment protocols targeting Fusarium spp. in burn treatment units can significantly reduce mortality rates. It is critical to enhance the understanding of fusariosis epidemiology and emphasize the importance of maintaining a high clinical suspicion for this condition in burn patients.

A Case of Local Radiation Injury in the Creation of Lichtenburg Art

Despite the fact that there may be no immediate outward signs of tissue destruction, the ultimate damage caused by radiation exposure is immediate and may be predicted based on the source, length of exposure, and type of tissue to which the radiation is exposed. Although predictable, difficulty in caring for these patients stems from the multiple sources of radiation to which people may be exposed, the various parts of the body exposed, the dose involved, the rarity of the condition, and a general lack of knowledge on the part of treating physicians. Due to these factors, there is significant variation in treatment recommendations. Additionally, knowledge about how to treat these injuries is limited and often very difficult to access, even among healthcare professionals. This report highlights the first known case of localized radiation injury secondary to the utilization of a linear accelerator to generate Lichtenberg art. In this case, an accident occurred while working with a retired accelerator and led to severe local radiation injury to this patient's bilateral hands, prompting a series of searches and inquiries as to the next best step in management. From consulting clinicians at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) who are experts in managing radiation injury to the eventual need for digit amputation, this case highlights the profound lack of knowledge and accessible resources for clinicians and patients facing localized radiation injury. This is a noninterventional observation case report without the requirement of ethical approval.

Early Enzymatic Burn Debridement: Results of the DETECT Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

Since 1970 surgeons have managed deep burns by surgical debridement and autografting. We tested the hypothesis that enzymatic debridement with NexoBrid would remove the eschar reducing surgery and achieve comparable long-term outcomes as standard of care (SOC). In this Phase 3 trial, we randomly assigned adults with deep burns (covering 3-30% of total body surface area [TBSA]) to NexoBrid, surgical or nonsurgical SOC, or placebo Gel Vehicle (GV) in a 3:3:1 ratio. The primary endpoint was complete eschar removal (ER) at the end of the debridement phase. Secondary outcomes were need for surgery, time to complete ER, and blood loss. Safety endpoints included wound closure and 12 and 24-months cosmesis on the Modified Vancouver Scar Scale. Patients were randomized to NexoBrid (n = 75), SOC (n = 75), and GV (n = 25). Complete ER was higher in the NexoBrid versus the GV group (93% vs 4%; P < .001). Surgical excision was lower in the NexoBrid vs the SOC group (4% vs 72%; P < .001). Median time to ER was 1.0 and 3.8 days for the NexoBrid and SOC respectively (P < .001). ER blood loss was lower in the NexoBrid than the SOC group (14 ± 512 mL vs 814 ± 1020 mL, respectively; P < .0001). MVSS scores at 12 and 24 months were noninferior in the NexoBrid versus SOC groups (3.7 ± 2.1 vs 5.0 ± 3.1 for the 12 months and 3.04 ± 2.2 vs 3.30 ± 2.76 for the 24 months). NexoBrid resulted in early complete ER in >90% of burn patients, reduced surgery and blood loss. NexoBrid was safe and well tolerated without deleterious effects on wound closure and scarring.

A Retrospective Case-Control Study of Eravacycline for the Treatment of Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter Infections in Patients With Burn Injuries

Thermal injuries lead to a deficiency in one's natural, protective barrier, resulting in increased susceptibility to pathogens, and often require multiple courses of broad-spectrum antibiotics. Eravacycline (ERA) has shown adequate in vitro activity against multiple multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens including Acinetobacter sp. Due to the increasing prevalence of MDR bacteria and the heightened susceptibility of patients with burns to infection, studies are needed to examine the clinical effect of eravacycline in this population. The objective of this retrospective, case-control study was to compare the outcomes of patients with thermal injuries treated with eravacycline versus a matched control for carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) infections. Patients with thermal injury admitted to an American Burn Associated-verified burn center from May 1, 2019 to July 31, 2022, who received eravacycline, were randomly matched 4:1 to a historical cohort using a previously established, de-identified dataset of patients treated with colistimethate sodium (CMS) in the same burn center (March 1, 2009 to March 31, 2014), based on % total body surface area (%TBSA), age, and CRAB. A composite favorable outcome was defined as 30-day survival, completion of the course, lack of 14-day recurrence, and lack of acute kidney injury (AKI). Treatment with eravacycline over CMS was not more or less likely to be associated with a favorable response [odds ratio (95% confidence interval), 2.066 (0.456-9.361), P = .347]. Patients treated with CMS had nearly 9-fold higher odds of new-onset AKI versus ERA [8.816 (0.911-85.308), P = .06]. Adverse events were uncommon in the ERA group. There was no difference in mortality.

Efficacy of Massage Techniques for Hypertrophic Burn Scars - A Systematic Review of Literature

Despite advancements in burn care, evidence estimates that pathological scarring occurs in 32%-75% of cutaneous burns. Scar massage therapy is an under researched method of management for hypertrophic burn scars which has scope to be a low-cost treatment alternative. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the efficacy of scar massage techniques for common hypertrophic burn scar symptoms such as contraction, pruritus, pain and visibility. The keywords and corresponding MeSH terms were inputed into PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane database of Systematic Reviews, University Library of Hull, York and Queen Mary, University of London. Following the implementation of predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, ten papers were included for data extraction. Quality assessment of all papers was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and ROBINS-I tool. Data pertaining to the nature of the participant demographics, scar massage treatment, and study outcomes was extracted. Nine of the ten studies showed a significant improvement for scar massage treatment of hypertrophic burn scar symptoms despite using different massage techniques. Friction and oscillation massage was used in partnership to improve scar function, whereas effleurage and petrissage used in longer sessions was seen to improve scar visibility and pain. Scar pruritus was improved by each massage technique. Scar massage has been shown to be effective at improving scar outcomes. This paper suggests massage techniques should be tailored to the patients' symptoms. A large, randomized control trial is required to advance this area of research.

Management and Outcomes of Acute Kidney Injury due to Burns: A Literature Review

Acute kidney injury (AKI), a common and severe complication following burn injuries, presents a significant challenge due to its broad clinical manifestations and diverse etiologies. AKI, previously known as acute renal failure, can present abruptly following burns or thermal injuries, causing detrimental health outcomes such as progressive kidney dysfunction, increased hospital length of stay, and requirement of renal replacement therapy (RRT). AKI affects the maintenance of homeostasis of fluid and electrolytes, elimination of metabolic wastes and byproducts, and acid-base balance. Aggressive nutritional support is particularly necessitated in burn patients to prevent protein-energy wasting and a negative nitrogen balance. Understanding the pathogenesis of AKI in burns and improving its prevention and early diagnosis are active areas of research in this field. Despite the potential benefits, the optimal timing and threshold for RRT initiation in burn patients with AKI remain unclear, warranting further studies. Ongoing investigations focus on refining RRT techniques, evaluating biomarkers for early detection of AKI, and exploring adjunctive therapies to enhance renal recovery. The aim of this study is to review the etiology, diagnostic tools, and interventions that improve outcomes associated with AKI in burn-related settings.

Severe High-Voltage Electrical Injury: A Rare Case Report

High-voltage electrical injury usually causes severe tissue damage and serious secondary complications. We report a case of treatment of severe high-voltage electrical injury. A series of personalized and effective treatment plans were created through repeated discussions, we successfully handled a series of acute and critical conditions, including severe limb damage, a very large area of full-thickness abdominal wall defect, abdominal viscera (stomach and liver) necrosis, abdominal infection, renal insufficiency, myocardial damage, and malignant arrhythmia (atrial fibrillation). Finally, the wounds were all closed, the functions of the abdominal organs were restored, and the course of the disease was successfully transitioned into the rehabilitation stage. It took a lot of twists and turns but ultimately saved the patient's life. The successful treatment of this patient provides an important reference for similar patients with serious electrical injury in the future.

Comparison of Continuous Sedatives in the Burn ICU on Delirium and Coma

Lighter sedation targets over the past decade have resulted in improved outcomes for critically ill populations. Although guidelines exist for the general ICU population, these recommendations often exclude the burn population. The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of the initial continuous sedative on coma- and delirium-free days in critically ill patients with burns. This retrospective cohort study evaluated adult patients admitted to a burn intensive care unit at an academic medical center between January 2010 and September 2019. Patients were enrolled into 3 groups based on the depth of initial continuous sedation received (deep, light, or analgosedation). Intubated patients were randomly assessed for inclusion from the National V6 Burn Registry. Patients were included if they received a continuous sedative infusion for at least 48 h. A total of 107 patients were included in the study with 36, 41, and 30 patients receiving deep, light, and analgosedation, respectively. The primary outcome of coma- and delirium-free days was significantly different between sedation types with the most days free in analgosedation and the fewest in deep sedation (8 versus 3 days; P = 0.024). The composite primary outcome was divided into secondary outcomes of coma-free days and delirium-free days, with coma-free days being different (P = 0.00008). Other secondary outcomes of length of stay in the intensive care unit and hospital, time on mechanical ventilation, and survival to discharge were not statistically significant; however, a trend toward higher mortality in deep sedation was noted.

Acute kidney injury in patients with burns

Burn injury is associated with a high risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) with a prevalence of AKI among patients with burns of 9-50%. Despite an improvement in burn injury survival in the past decade, AKI in patients with burns is associated with an extremely poor short-term and long-term prognosis, with a mortality of >80% among those with severe AKI. Factors that contribute to the development of AKI in patients with burns include haemodynamic alterations, burn-induced systemic inflammation and apoptosis, haemolysis, rhabdomyolysis, smoke inhalation injury, drug nephrotoxicity and sepsis. Early and late AKI after burn injury differ in their aetiologies and outcomes. Sepsis is the main driver of late AKI in patients with burns and late AKI has been associated with higher mortality than early AKI. Prevention of early AKI involves correction of hypovolaemia and avoidance of nephrotoxic drugs (for example, hydroxocobalamin), whereas prevention of late AKI involves prevention and early recognition of sepsis as well as avoidance of nephrotoxins. Treatment of AKI in patients with burns remains supportive, including prevention of fluid overload, treatment of electrolyte disturbance and use of kidney replacement therapy when indicated.

Burn related globe and adnexal trauma at trauma centres

INTRODUCTION

Prompt management of burn-related globe trauma can prevent long term complications. Delays in diagnosis may occur when globe trauma is associated with life-threatening injuries. We aimed to improve the understanding of the epidemiology, acute assessment and management of burns-related globe and adnexal trauma admitted to two trauma centres in Sydney, Australia.

METHOD

Admitted patients with burns-related globe and/or adnexal trauma were retrospectively reviewed at Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH) and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPAH) between January 2015 and December 2019. The International Classification of Disease, Tenth Revision codes was used to search and identify patients. Medical records were reviewed to extract data on demographics, injuries, ocular examination and ophthalmology involvement.

RESULTS

Over the 5-years, 101 patients with globe and/or adnexal burns-related trauma were admitted to RNSH or RPAH. Median age was 37years. Most patients were male (76%) and were injured while at home or work (74%). Patients with chemical exposure were more likely to have globe trauma (100% vs 72%, p < 0.001) and severe globe trauma (54% vs 32%, p = 0.028). On initial review by emergency staff, 14 patients were not referred to ophthalmology, of these there were 2 patients where the diagnosis was delayed.

CONCLUSION

Globe trauma is common in patients with chemical exposure. Thorough ocular assessment within the acute setting is vital to diagnose globe trauma. We investigated hospitals with specialised burn staff, further research is required to understand the management of globe trauma in hospitals without such resources.

SYNOPSIS

Chemicals in household-products can cause severe globe trauma. Globe trauma can occur alongside large burns leading to delay in its diagnosis and management. Ophthalmology can assist in the early diagnosis and management of globe trauma.

Long term opioid use after burn injury: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Patients who have survive a burn injury might be at risk of opioid dependence after discharge. This study examined the use of opioids in patients who suffer burn injury and explored factors associated with persistent opioid use after hospital discharge.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study compared adults admitted with a burn injury from 2009 to 2019 with two matched comparison cohorts from the general population and adults with a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. Pre-admission prescription opioid use was determined, and a multivariable negative binomial regression analysis used to explore post-discharge opioid use.

RESULTS

A total of 7147 burn patients were matched with 6810 pancreatitis patients and with 28 184 individuals from the general population. Pre-admission opioid use was higher in the burn and pancreatitis cohorts (29% and 40%, respectively) compared with the general population (17%). Opioid use increased in both burn and pancreatitis cohorts after discharge (41% and 53%, respectively), although patients with pancreatitis were at even higher risk of increased opioid use in an adjusted analysis (incidence rate ratio 1.43). Female sex, lower socioeconomic status, ICU admission, pre-injury opioid use, and a history of excess alcohol use were all associated with an increase in opioid prescriptions after discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Opioid use is high in those admitted with a burn injury or acute pancreatitis when compared with the general population, increasing further after hospital discharge. Female sex and socioeconomic deprivation are among factors that make increased opioid use more likely, although this phenomenon seems even more pronounced in those with acute pancreatitis compared with burn injuries.

Extensive primary cutaneous fusariosis in a patient with burns: A case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Fusarium species can cause a broad spectrum of human infections, ranging from superficial and locally invasive to disseminated, depending on the immune status of the host and portal of entry. Although several cases of cutaneous fusariosis in burn victims have been reported, molecular identification for pathogen recognition has been used only in a few cases.

CASE DESCRIPTION

In this report, we describe an uncommon case of extensive primary cutaneous fusariosis caused by Fusarium keratoplasticum in a patient who sustained injuries during stubble burning.

FINDINGS

A review of cases of cutaneous fusariosis in burn victims revealed that this uncommon infection could be lethal, and treatment strategies should focus on both surgical debridement and the initiation of systemic antifungal therapy. Furthermore, because skin defects can serve as a portal of entry for Fusarium species in burn victims, early and aggressive treatment is crucial to prevent serious consequences.

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). An observational cross-sectional study of adult burn survivors was undertaken in Bangladesh to evaluate as many of these risk factors as were feasible against contracture presence and severity. Forty-eight potential risk factors were examined in 48 adult patients with 126 major joints at risk (median 3 per participant) at a median of 2.5 years after burn injury. Contractures were present in 77% of participants and 52% of joints overall. Contracture severity was determined by measurement of loss of movement at all joints at risk. Person level risk factors were defined as those that were common to all joints at risk for the participant and only documented once, whilst joint level risk factors were documented for each of the participant's included joints at risk. Person level risk factors which were significantly correlated with loss of range of movement (ROM) included employment status, full thickness burns, refusal of skin graft, discharged against medical advice, low frequency of follow up and lack of awareness of contracture development. Significant joint level risk factors for loss of ROM included anatomical location, non-grafted burns, and lack of pressure therapy. This study has examined the largest number of potential contracture risk factors in an LMIC setting to date. 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.