Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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This article re-emphasises the efficacy of the previously described multi-purpose, self-adjustable, aeroplane splint for the splinting of axillary burns. This superior to the commonly used contoured splint for various reasons namely (i) its usability during the acute burn care rehabilitation, (ii) its cost effectiveness, (iii) its durability, and (iv) its strength. ⋯ Though we acknowledge that there is a possibility of 'chord of circle' development due to the use of this splint, we have been successful in preventing such a complication simply by prescribing pressure garment concomitantly with this splint. Thus this article highlights the efficacy of earlier described multi-purpose, self-adjustable, aeroplane splint for the splinting of axillary burns.
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One of the characteristics of hypertrophic scarring is its raised appearance. Its maturation often results in increased thickness. Therapists usually rely on subjective observation and palpation to document scar thickness. ⋯ A significant difference between two scar type groups (50 burn scald scars and 50 surgical scars) was demonstrated (d.f.=52.94, t=3.99, p<0.01). TUPS was proved to have high inter-rater, test-retest reliability and it had a moderate correlation with the VSS that clinicians used for assessment of the scar. This system is recommended for clinical assessment of scar thickness.
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The main objectives of this study were to investigate whether patients with self-inflicted burns have larger burns, and a worse outcome, than patients with accidental burns. The secondary objective was to examine patient pre-injury characteristics to identify ways of preventing the burn occurring. A case-controlled study was performed: 36 deliberate self-burn patients were matched separately to two groups of accidental burn patients. ⋯ Self-inflicted burns occurred in supervised environments in 28% of cases. The number of deliberate self-burns could be reduced with simple interventions such as restricting smoking in hospitals and prisons, and also by identifying high-risk patients. The poor outcome from deliberate self-burns could be improved by well-coordinated multidisciplinary patient management with early psychiatric team involvement.
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Managing axillary burns with an Aeroplane Splint has been known for its effectiveness for years. However, poor compliance in using the various models of currently available aeroplane splints leads to an inadequate outcome, because of the discomfort produced not only in wearing but also while ambulating within the community. ⋯ An attempt to target these problems was made by Manigandan et al, but aeroplane splints, even the one described by them does not deal with the major problem of aesthetic appeal as identified by many of our patients. Accordingly this article presents a new model of the aeroplane splint with innovative changes, focussing on aesthetic appeal while maintaining all the benefits of the splint described by Manigandan et al.
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Burn depth assessment is important as early excision and grafting is the treatment of choice for deep dermal burn. Inaccurate assessment causes prolonged hospital stay, increased medical expenses and morbidity. Based on reflected burn spectra, we have developed an artificial neural network to predict the burn healing time. ⋯ Using reflectance spectrometer, we have developed an artificial neural network to determine the burn healing time with 86% overall predictive accuracy.