Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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The burn trauma is multifactorial and involves pathophysiologic processes of all of the body's systems. The impact it could have on a person's life includes impairments on their esthetic appearance, interpersonal relationships, psychological, social and physical functioning. ⋯ Currently, a shift is afoot from defining good health care as merely the reduction of morbidity and mortality to a more holistic approach that involves aspects of Health Related Quality of Life. In this article we aim to present a concise review of the relevant literature and relevant topics pertaining Health Related Quality of Life and burn.
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The purpose of this review is to investigate the use of Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) as a therapeutic tool for hypertrophic burns scarring. The difference between keloids and hypertrophic scars is first described. The review then outlines the progress and assessment of hypertrophic scars for burns patients and the problem of their clinical management. ⋯ The efficacy of PDL for both prevention and treatment is summarised for all hypertrophic scarring and the various laser treatment protocols in previous research is studied. The differentiation between prevention and treatment is discussed in relation to scar duration and the need for prevention rather than treatment is then proposed for intervention using PDL. The paper concludes with recommendations for future research through a prospective randomised, controlled study using 595 nm PDL in the prevention of scars with less than 6 month duration.
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Hydrotherapy is widely used in burns management however there are risks associated with its use, in particular cross-infection. Data regarding indications and techniques in common use is deficient. This study aimed to investigate hydrotherapy practices in the UK and Ireland. ⋯ Hydrotherapy is used nationwide, however considerable variation in practice exists. One area worthy of further consideration is the need for appropriate standards of infection control.