Care of Patients who Presented Severe Burns from Flammable Liquid Following the Explosion of a Gasoline Tank Truck on the Outskirts of Niamey

Abstract

Aim of the study: To evaluate the care, at the National Hospital of Niamey, of patients who suffered severe burns following the explosion of a petrol tank truck. Patients and methods: It was a descriptive and analytical prospective study that took place from May 6 to August 8, 2019. All the patients, victims of the explosion, who were taken care at the National Hospital of Niamey were included in the study. Our data were entered and analyzed by computer software such as Epi info 7.2.3.1, Word Office and Excel Office 2016. Fischer and Pearson tests were used, with a significant value p<0.05. Results: The explosion concerned 104 people of which 55 (52.95%) were died, charred and unrecognizable. There were 41 (39.4%) patients with burn injury and 8 (7.7%) with smoke intoxication. 35 (71.43%) of the patients were taken care at the National Hospital of Niamey. The average age of the patients was 23.45 years with a sex-ratio (M/F) of 16.5. The average skin burnt area (SBA) was 57.12%; 3rd degree burn predominated with 71.87%. Hydro electrolytic resuscutation according to Parkland Hospital formula was the most used in the care of the patients with 87.5%. The most frequent localisation concerned the pelvic limb with 84.37%, the death rate represented 57.14%. The extend of skin burnt area, the depth of the burn, the Baux score value and the time at which death occurred were all significant factors that are associated with the mortality with respectively p=0.008; p=0.002 et p=0.003. Conclusion: The explosion of the gasoline tank truck showed our limits in care at the HNN. The establishment of a white plan for the management of massive influxes, the creation of a burns center as well as prevention through information and education of the population is more than necessary.