Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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Perforator-based flaps have become indispensable in the treatment of burn scars. Pre-operative perforator mapping is often performed by use of the hand held Doppler device, partly due to its convenience and the low costs. We expected to find sufficient evidence in literature to support the use of the device, however available literature showed a distinct lack of clinimetric studies that adequately tested the reliability. ⋯ Surprisingly, this study has shown that performance of the hand held Doppler device was moderate. The Doppler should not be used alone for the detection of perforators.
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Appearance-related concerns are common following burns. However, there is minimal research that has specifically investigated patients' reactions when they looked in the mirror for the first time following facial burns. The current study aimed to investigate patients' reactions and factors associated with distress. ⋯ In conclusion, patients' reactions to looking in the mirror for the first time vary. Adequately preparing patients and investigating their expectations beforehand is crucial. The findings have a number of important implications for practice.
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Lagophthalmos is a critical problem in patients with severe periocular burn causing corneal exposure which may result in corneal ulcers and even loss of vision. Many surgical techniques were described to overcome this problem with different rates of success. This article presents a simple but useful technique involving the V-Y advancement of the eyelid or eyelids in vertical direction for the prevention of cicatricial ectropion and eyelid contraction.
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Neuropeptides have been recently reported as having an important role in wound repair, and relief from pain and itching sensation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of neuropeptides on the wound healing process in hypertrophic scar formation that accompanies severe pain and itching sensation. ⋯ Neuropeptides such as PGP 9.5, SP, and CGRP seem to affect scarring via sensory neurotransmission, it have a regulatory role for pain and itching sensation in hypertrophic scars.
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This pilot study aimed to gain empirical data on the social and economic impacts of child burns on children and parents, in the context of the outpatient setting. ⋯ Parents were shown to perceive a greater impact from their child's burn injury than their child. Certain groups of parents were identified as requiring additional support following the burn injury.