Publication:

Associated injuries in electrical burns: a 2 year retrospective study in a tertiary care burns unit

Background Electric burns are associated with a high degree of morbidity and mortality. The association of multiple injuries in burn patients further complicates the management problem. The injuries require prompt diagnosis and redressal for better outcomes.

Methods We decided to undertake a study to note characteristics of associated injuries in patients with electrical burns. A retrospective review was done of all patients admitted in Burn Unit of SMS Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur over a period of 2 years, who had sustained electric burns and had sustained associated injuries.

Results A total of 770 patients were admitted with electric burns over this duration. Associated injuries were noted in 4.15% of these patients. Young, male patients were more commonly affected, with a male to female ratio of 4:1.

Conclusions The incidence of associated injuries in electrical burns is not insignificant. A low threshold for suspicion is required in managing doctors to diagnose such injuries for optimal treatment and improved outcome in patients with electrical burns.