Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Children are the most risk prone in cases of burns. The previous epidemiologic study of paediatric burns in Lagos-Nigeria was carried four decades ago. A new study becomes necessary in view of the increasing incidences of petroleum related fire disasters in Nigeria. ⋯ This study identifies the main causes of paediatric burns and the major factors responsible for morbidity and mortality at the present time in a low income country. The level of awareness about burns prevention among the populace and health care facilities should be improved.
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This study investigated the use of telemedicine in decision-making and follow-up of burn patients. ⋯ Telemedicine is appropriate and cost-effective for treatment and follow-up of patients in burn units with personnel with limited experience.
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We previously reported bronchial circulation contributes to pulmonary edema and increases shunt fraction following smoke inhalation, and bronchial blood flow significantly increases in inhalation injury. We hypothesized reduction of bronchial blood flow reduces exudation to the airway and ameliorates lung injury from combined burn and smoke insults (B&S injury). ⋯ Bronchial circulation plays a significant role in lung injury after B&S injury, and reduction of bronchial blood flow by bronchial artery ligation reduces bronchial exudates, resulting in improved gas exchange.
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Burns sustained in bathtubs are a social and medical problem in Japan, especially among the elderly. Between October 2003 and March 2009, 22 adult scald burn patients (men, 17; average age, 65.3 ± 21.2 years) were transferred to Tokai University. In this study, we investigated the characteristics of these patients, and compared clinical parameters among patients with burns sustained in a bathtub (n = 10) and those with burns sustained due to other causes (n = 12). ⋯ Burns sustained in bathtubs were more severe than those sustained due to other causes. The bathtub-related burn patients were elderly, and their burns were extensive and deep; hence, they were at a higher risk of developing internal diseases. Thus, introduction of safer bathing styles and bath systems will decrease incidences of bathtub-related burns.
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Perioral contractures after burn (microstomia) is a common consequence of facial burns. A small oral opening creates a problem for oral hygiene, food intake and intubation. Therefore, contracture treatment is beneficial once severe limitation of function is realised. ⋯ The commissural angle accepted a normal shape; the mucosal flap was invisible when the mouth was closed; the mouth had a normal appearance when the mouth orifice was open. After an adequate correction, no recurrence of contractures took place. Thus, scar dissection and wound coverage with the trapeze-flap plasty becomes a preferred reconstructive technique for microstomia release after burn.