Publication:

Retrospective and prospective study of amputation in burn patients in Kashmir

Background Burn is the coagulation necrosis of tissue caused as a result of application of heat which is categorized depending upon its depth. Amputation in burn patient is widely reported especially in severe burn to enhance survival. Though the number of amputations is low in civilian population but it represents a significantly large economic loss. Objective was to do a retrospective and prospective study of amputation in burn patients in Kashmir.

Methods This study was conducted retrospectively from July 2007 to June 2017 and prospectively from July 2017 to June 2019 in department of plastic and reconstructive surgery, SKIMS, Srinagar. For prospective group the patients were admitted and resuscitated as per the protocol and then shifted to the burn unit. The patients were closely monitored and the procedures like early and delayed amputation were done as needed.

Results We had finally a total of 35 patients with 24 in retrospective and 11 in prospective group. In retrospective group, 9 patients had minor while as 15 had major amputation. Majority of the patients were in the age group of 20-40 years (58.3%). In prospective group, 6 patients had major while as 5 patients had minor amputation. Majority of the patients belonged to the age group of 20-40 years (45.5%).

Conclusions The amputation rate in burn patients is not reassuring in Kashmir with minor or major amputation needed in almost all patients and the most effected age group is the “productive age group” representing a significant economic loss.