Publication:

Epidemiological study of 100 cases of burn injuries

Background Burn injuries are a huge public health challenge and a preventable cause of formidable morbidity, mortality, disfigurement, and disabilities. The incidence of burn injuries remains high all over India and more so in the given region. This is an epidemiological study from 100 consecutive adult burn cases admitted in Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital Burns Unit. The aim was to study the various epidemiological factors like age group, sex, socioeconomic status, causative factors, comorbid conditions, the severity of burns, psychological aspects and treatment modalities which impact the outcome.

Methods 100 cases admitted in the burn unit of Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital were studied from October 2017 to October 2018. Data on age, sex, aetiology, percentage of body surface area (TBSA), comorbid conditions, socioeconomic factors, treatment modalities, psychological factors, bacteriological studies and treatment outcomes were studied during the period. Inclusion criteria was all burn patients more than 14 years of age.

Results A total of 100 cases of burns were studied (male 32 and female 68).  The average percentage of TBSA was 45% and the most common etiological factor was flame burns. Comorbid conditions like diabetes and COPD significantly affected the outcome. Psychological factors played an important role in the causation and outcomes. Treatment modalities were tailored according to the severity of burns.  Mortality was higher for burns more than 40% TBSA.

Conclusions This study represents the epidemiological pattern of burns in Tirunelveli district and can be used to devise improvements in treatment protocols, strategies in burns prevention and to plan a modern hi-tech burns unit.