An integrated management (Ayurveda and Modern medicine) of accidental burn injury: A case study

Abstract

Burn injuries are frequent, horrifying, and life-threatening conditions that are still challenging to cure. Complications like scarring, keloid formation, and contractures are the main challenges for the treating surgeon. The Ayurvedic classics explain different treatment modalities for the management of burn wounds, like oral medicines, topical applications prepared with herbal medicines, ghee, oil, and typical wound dressing techniques like Patraadaana (wound covering with medicinal leaves), and fumigation therapy, etc. Here we report a case of accidental burn injury with a TBSA of 27% First degree (superficial) and 15% second degree (deep partial-thickness) burns with complaints of fever and burning sensation at the burn site. On the basis of the symptoms listed in the classical texts of Ayurveda, the case was diagnosed as Pramadadagdha (accidental burn). To properly manage the burn wound, an integrated therapy strategy was designed. Ropanaghrita (medicated ghee) was applied locally, followed by the application of Tinospora cordifolia leaves to cover the wound, fumigation therapy, and oral medications to hasten wound healing and reduce infection. In the first seven days, modern medicine was used as emergency care in addition to Ayurvedic management. Within 60 days of receiving treatment, the burn wound had entirely healed, and the patient was able to resume her regular work activities. In the current situation, the combined strategy produced encouraging burn management outcomes.