The first 1000 patients treated in Kuopio University Hospital Burn Unit in Finland

Abstract

An epidemiological study on burn patients treated in a Finnish burn center has not been published before in international literature. This study reports the results of a retrospective study on the first 1000 patients treated in Kuopio University Hospital Burn Unit (KBU) in Finland. Subjects First consecutive 1000 patients treated in KBU January 1994–April 2006. Results The incidence of burns treated in our burn center was 6.8 patients/100,000/year. The median (iq-range) age of patients increased by 10 years during the study period to 39 (13–54) years. The median TBSA was 3.5 (1.5–10)% and 78% of burns were smaller than 10%. The male:female ratio was 2.64:1 and it also increased during the study period. Female predominance was found only in >80 years old patients. Most burns were scalds (34%) but flame was the major etiological factor in ICU and lethal burns. Every fourth burn occurred in a sauna. Inhalation injury was diagnosed in 2.7% of patients. Most patients (60%) underwent surgical therapy and 14.3% needed intensive care. The hospital stay was 1.4%/TBSA. The overall mortality was 4% but only 2.4% in those patients who were treated actively. Conclusion The median age and male predominance have increased during the study period. Every fourth burn is sauna-related therefore a target for prevention strategies.