Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries
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In South Africa, burns are a major public health problem responsible for significant morbidity and long-term physical disability. This is, in part, due to a significant proportion of the urban population living in poorly constructed, combustible accommodation. The presence of co-morbid diseases such as diabetes and malignancy in patients with burns has been associated with a poorer outcome. ⋯ Burns are a significant yet preventable cause of mortality and morbidity. The rising number of shack fires, responsible for extensive burns and resultant mortality is concerning and indicates urgent attention and action. HIV complicates the recovery from burn and is responsible for an increased rate of in hospital mortality.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Occlusive drainage system for split-thickness skin graft: A prospective randomized controlled trial.
Split-thickness skin grafts are widely used in reconstruction of large area defects. Conventional postoperative recipient site care includes saline-moistened gauze with a protective layer of petroleum gauze and splints for immobilization. This method causes pain while changing the dressing. We designed a better occlusive drainage system for split-thickness skin grafts. We compared the treatment effect and subjective evaluation of our occlusive drainage system with that of the conventional method for coverage of split-thickness skin grafts. ⋯ Comparing with the indirect wet dressing method, this new method is practical for covering split-thickness skin grafts, causes less pain, and provides a better experience for patients.
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Observational Study
Paediatric burn unit in Portugal: Beds needed using a bed-day approach.
Despite the high burden of children with burns, there is not a paediatric burn unit (PBU) in Portugal. We aimed to estimate the Portuguese health care providing needs on paediatric burns. ⋯ Using a groundbreaking approach, the optimal number of PBU beds needed in Portugal is 13. However, as half of the patients who met burn transfer criteria are not transferred, this bed number might be overestimated if this pattern maintains, despite the underestimation with our method approach. If a PBU is to be created the preferable location is Porto. Cost-effectiveness studies should be performed.