Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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The most common burn wound assessment continues to be the clinical inspection and the tactile examination, which are subjective and remain challenging even for experienced burn surgeons. Recently, hyperspectral imaging camera systems have been increasingly used to support the evaluation of burn wounds. The aim of our study was to determine if hyperspectral imaging analysis differentiates and objectifies the assessment of burn wounds in burns of the upper extremities. ⋯ We found that hyperspectral imaging analysis effectively differentiates burn wounds and shows the ability to distinguish even superficial partial burns from deep partial burns in the near-infrared perfusion analysis feature. Although, it was not possible to differentiate burn wounds in all features. Currently, it is important to optimize the respective reference values of the individual burn degrees for an objectified assessment.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Tranexamic acid reduced blood transfusions in acute burn surgery: A retrospective case-controlled trial.
Early excision and grafting of burn wounds are key for reducing prevalence of infection and sepsis. However, it is associated with massive blood loss and patients frequently require large numbers of blood transfusions. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of tranexamic acid (TXA) on blood transfusion requirements in acute burn surgery. ⋯ This study shows that necessity for blood transfusions in acute burn surgery may be reduced significantly by administration of TXA perioperatively. Randomized-controlled trials are needed to prove these findings.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
The effect of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in the treatment of burn scars: A prospective, randomized, controlled trial.
Current scientific evidence on the effect of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) as adjunctive treatment for burn scars is scarce. However preliminary evidence, indicates it might prove a useful tool. ⋯ Our study questions the relevance of ESWT as adjunctive treatment for burn scars as far as outward appearance, pain and pruritus as end-results are concern. Nonetheless, further studies are required to accurately assess the potential benefits of ESWT as an adjunctive treatment for burn scars.
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Child abuse and neglect in paediatric burns: The majority is caused by neglect and thus preventable.
It is complex to distinguish negligent burns from inflicted and non-intentional burns, especially since no deliberate action caused the burn. Its recognition is important to create a safe life without (future) burns for our loved-ones who cannot take care of themselves (yet). Our aim was to investigate the incidence and associated characteristics of negligent burns are among children treated at a burn center. ⋯ This study shows that neglect is a major factor in the occurrence of burns in young children, therefore we conclude that the majority of paediatric burns are preventable. Educational programs creating awareness and focussing on prevention of these burns should be aimed at households, since the majority of negligent as cause of preventable burns occur at home.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Efficacy and costs of nanocrystalline silver dressings versus 1% silver sulfadiazine dressings to treat burns in adults in the outpatient setting: A randomized clinical trial.
Nanocrystalline silver dressings can reduce the number of changes, facilitating burn wound management. However, the evidence regarding their efficacy and cost-consequences compared to well-established treatments, such as 1% silver sulfadiazine, is still scarce. ⋯ We found no evidence of a difference between nanocrystalline silver and 1% silver sulfadiazine dressings regarding efficacy and safety outcomes. Nanocrystalline silver dressings were associated with an increase in the total costs, but they could result in important savings for an institution (less changes of dressings, reducing human resources burden), especially if acquisition costs can be decreased. Additional cost-effectiveness studies are warranted.