663 Application and Management of Cultured Epithelial Autografts (CEAs) on Posterior Burns – A 5-year, Multi-center, Retrospective Review of Outcomes

Abstract

Abstract Introduction In patients with larger burns, treatment with CEAs have proven to increase survival.1 CEAs, while useful, are not without some disadvantages. For instance, if the injury involves burns to posterior surfaces, the challenge is inherent in that these fragile sheets are easily sheared, and pressure can cause disruption and graft loss. CEA grafting must be managed with specific care and with specialized protocols that help address these challenges. Graft loss due to these and other factors can delay healing, increase hospital length of stay, and increase the cost of care. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the success for graft take in patients with posterior burns treated with CEA and to discuss the techniques, protocols and approaches to managing these patients within our burn network. Methods This retrospective study was granted exemption by IntegReview IRB. Take rate for each application of CEA was not always found for some cases. For purposes of this study, we agreed with methods of other researchers in the literature and adapted the “clinically relevant” assessment that take and final coverage was successful when re-grafting was not required by the time of discharge or death.2 Results Study dates was March 2016 - December 2019 and at this time, is being reported from among 3 of 6 participating centers. Our approach is to provide CEA prep the day before initial placement and then to ensure strict protocols are followed at the bedside post-op and thereafter. Total number of patients considered was 68, 41 were deemed evaluable. See tables for other demographics and results. 31 patients were discharged to rehab (75%), 6 were discharged home (15%) and 4 died (10%). Conclusions Meticulous attention to wound bed preparation and ensuring that post-op care is clearly stated and understood by all clinicians involved in the care of patients with larger burns with posterior trunk involvement is the key to successful coverage with CEA to this challenging anatomical location.