Acute Burn Resuscitation Research Articles

Fibrinolytic Dysfunction and Endotheliopathy After Major Thermal Injury: Considerations Needed for New Approaches to Burn Shock Resuscitation.

In recent years, it has become apparent that fibrinolytic dysfunction and endotheliopathy develop in up to 40% of patients during the first hours following thermal injury and are associated with poor outcomes and increased resuscitation requirements. Rapidly following burn injury, the fibrinolytic system is activated, with activation generally greater with increased severity of injury. Very high plasma concentrations of plasmin-antiplasmin complex (marker of activation), have been associated with mortality. Patients display hyperfibrinolytic, physiologic/normal or hypofibrinolytic/fibrinolytic shutdown phenotypes, as assessed by viscoelastic assay. Phenotypes change in over 50% of patients during the acute burn resuscitation period, with some patterns (maladaptive) associated with increased mortality risk and others (adaptive, trending toward the physiologic phenotype) associated with survival. Endotheliopathy, as reflected in elevated plasma concentrations of syndecan-1 has also been associated with increased mortality. Here we review the incidence and effects of these responses after burn injury and explore mechanisms and potential interactions with the early inflammatory response. Available data from burn and non-burn trauma suggest that the fibrinolytic, endothelial, and inflammatory systems interact extensively and that dysregulation in one may exacerbate dysregulation in the others. This raises the possibility that successful treatment of one may favorably impact the others.

Impact of Alcohol and Methamphetamine Use on Burn Resuscitation.

Mortality associated with burn injuries is declining with improved critical care. However, patients admitted with concurrent substance use have increased risk of complications and poor outcomes. The impact of alcohol and methamphetamine use on acute burn resuscitation has been described in single-center studies; however, has not been studied since implementation of computerized decision support for resuscitation. Patients were evaluated based presence of alcohol, with a minimum blood alcohol level of 0.10, or positive methamphetamines on urine drug screen. Fluid volumes and urine output were examined over 48 hours. A total of 296 patients were analyzed. 37 (12.5%) were positive for methamphetamine use, 50 (16.9%) were positive for alcohol use, and 209 (70.1%) with negative for both. Patients positive for methamphetamine received a mean of 5.30 ± 2.63 cc/kg/TBSA, patients positive for alcohol received a mean of 5.41 ± 2.49 cc/kg/TBSA, and patients with neither received a mean of 4.33 ± 1.79 cc/kg/TBSA. Patients with methamphetamine or alcohol use had significantly higher fluid requirements. In the first 6 hours patients with alcohol use had significantly higher urinary output (UO) in comparison to patients with methamphetamine use which had similar output to patients negative for both substances. This study demonstrated that patients with alcohol and methamphetamine use had statistically significantly greater fluid resuscitation requirements compared to patients without. The effects of alcohol as a diuretic align with previous literature. However, patients with methamphetamine lack the increased UO as a cause for their increased fluid requirements.

701 Impact of Alcohol and Methamphetamine Use on Burn Resuscitation

Abstract Introduction Mortality associated with burn injuries is declining with improved critical care, including resuscitation. However, patients admitted with concurrent substance use have increased risk of complications and poor outcomes. The impact of alcohol and methamphetamine use on acute burn resuscitation has been described in single center studies, however, has not been studied since implementation of computerized decision support for resuscitation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate resuscitation volumes for patients with alcohol and methamphetamine use within a large prospective observational trial at 5 major US burn centers. Methods We performed an observational trial across five institutions with > 20% total body surface area (TBSA) burn, weighing >40kg that were resuscitated utilizing computerized decision support. Patients were evaluated based presence of alcohol, with a minimum blood alcohol level of 0.10, or positive methamphetamines on urine drug screen. Fluid volumes and urine output were examined over 48 hours and Wilcoxon Method was utilized to compare patient groups. Results A total of 296 patients were analyzed. 37 (12.5%) were positive for methamphetamine use, 50 (16.9%) were positive for alcohol use, and 209 (70.1%) with negative for both. Patients positive for methamphetamine received a mean of 5.30 ±2.63 cc/kg/TBSA, patients positive for alcohol received a mean of 5.41 ± 2.49 cc/kg/TBSA, and patients with neither received a mean 4.33 ± 1.79 cc/kg/TBSA. Patients with methamphetamine or alcohol use had significantly higher fluid requirements than those who were negative for both substances. In the first 6 hours patients with alcohol use had significantly higher urinary output in comparison to patients with methamphetamine use which had similar output to patients negative for both substances. Conclusions This study demonstrated that patients with alcohol and methamphetamine use had statistically significantly larger fluid resuscitation requirements compared to patients without. The effects of alcohol as a diuretic align with previous literature. However, patients with methamphetamine lack the increased urinary output as a cause for their increased fluid requirements. Methamphetamine’s neurologic and cardiovascular effects due to increased release of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine are known. Further investigation is required to better understand the mechanism underlying the need for increased resuscitation after burn injury in patients positive for methamphetamines. Applicability of Research to Practice The impact of alcohol and illicit substances on burn care, especially during the initial resuscitation, aids providers in guiding early critical care.

91 Precursors to Oliguria During Acute Burn Resuscitation: A Secondary Analysis of a Prospective Observational Study

Abstract Introduction Though commonly used to tailor fluid resuscitation, urine output may be a late indicator of impending burn shock. We sought to identify precedents of an early oliguric episode within 6 hours of admission. We hypothesize that specific variables may indicate early at-risk features during resuscitation. Methods We performed a secondary analysis of adults enrolled in the Burn Navigator resuscitation trial. We divided into two cohorts: those with oliguria (< 30ml/hr) and those without. Variables were compared by descriptive statistics. Results A total of 146 adults met inclusion criteria. More oliguric patients experienced systolic pressures < 90 mmHg (p=0.02) or Diastolic pressures < 40 mmHg (P=0.01). The minimum bicarbonate level (p=0.04), larger TBSA (p=0.01) and larger full thickness component (p=0.004) were all predictors of early oliguria. There were also more female patients (p=0.003) in the oliguric group. No cohort difference was observed for these variables: burn mechanism, percent partial thickness, HR >140 beats per minute (BPM) or hourly change in HR >10 BPM, temperature < 36C, hourly MAP drop >10 mmHg, creatine kinase, age, body mass index, hematocrit level, alcohol level, or methamphetamine use. Conclusions Specific variables and physiological derangement thresholds precedes the first oliguric episode during major burn resuscitation. These variables constitute at-risk features that may help derive future algorithms for efficient burn resuscitation. Applicability of Research to Practice Precursor variables of an early oligouric episode identify patients needing closer fluid titration.

708 Clinical Impact of a Revised Burn Resuscitation Guideline at an Adult Burn Center

Abstract Introduction The American Burn Association recommends volume resuscitation at 2-4ml/kg/TBSA; however, in practice, fluid resuscitation often exceeds these goals. Additional strategies used for burn resuscitation include the use of colloid rescue and high dose ascorbic acid (HDAA). In 2018, our institution moved from a fluid resuscitation strategy which included calculating fluid requirements using 4ml/kg/TBSA and HDAA infusion for burns > 30% TBSA to a strategy that calculated fluids using a 2ml/kg/TBSA with the removal of HDAA. Additionally, the guidance for colloid rescue was updated to provide specific time points for evaluation of the need for initiation of this intervention. The primary objective of this study was to compare outcomes of the new institutional resuscitation strategy to the previous one. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study evaluating outcomes for acute burn resuscitation between the previous institutional resuscitation guideline with the updated guideline. This study included adult patients admitted for burn injury with >20% TBSA between August 1, 2016, to September 30, 2021. The primary outcome was a composite safety endpoint which included incidence of acute kidney injury and intra-abdominal hypertension requiring intervention. Acute kidney injury was defined as a serum creatinine increase 1.5 times baseline. Statistical analyses utilized the Mann-Whitney U test for non-normally distributed continuous data and the chi-squared and Fischer’s exact test for categorical data. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The final analysis included 43 in the pre-group and 52 in the post-group update. Baseline characteristics between the groups were similar. The primary composite safety outcome was non-statistically significantly lower in the post-guideline update group (39.5% vs. 28.8%, p= 0.273). Total fluid volume administered (3.74 ml/kg/TBSA vs. 2.97 mL/kg/TBSA, p=0.007) and hourly urine output within the first 24 hours (1.26 mL/kg/hour vs. 0.75 mL/kg/hour, p=0.007) were significantly lower in the post-group. No differences were observed in vasopressor use (32.6% vs 36.5%, p=0.63), vasopressor duration (70.3 hours vs. 50.4 hours p=0.24), or duration of mechanical ventilation (5.1 days vs 10.4 days, p=0.113). Conclusions The burn resuscitation guideline update resulted in significantly lower 24 hour- fluid volumes, without negative hemodynamic consequences. Applicability of Research to Practice The comparison of two resuscitation protocols provides evidence for other institutions to help optimize their resuscitation practice

A randomized prospective comparison of the Baxter and Modified Brooke formulas for acute burn resuscitation

BackgroundStarting infusion at a rate based on the Baxter formula is the global standard. However, with this infusion formula, an excessive amount of fluid may be stored inside the body (fluid creep), which may lead to severe respiratory disorders or abdominal compartment syndrome. The present study explored whether the Baxter formula or the Modified Brooke formula is more beneficial for resuscitation in extensively burned patients. MethodsThe study design was a randomized controlled trial. One group received conventional intervention based on the Baxter formula, and the other received intervention using the infusion method by the Modified Brooke formula. Thirty-nine patients were enrolled in this study by admission to each hospital for 3 years. Of the 39 cases, 3 dropped out according to the study protocol, so 36 cases were analyzed, and 17 patients in the Modified Brooke formula group and 19 in the Baxter formula group were used for the analyses in this study. ResultsThere were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in the age, gender, body weight, burn severity, infusion volume required within 2 days after admission, serum creatinine, and acute kidney injury based on the KDIGO guideline within 48 h after arrival at the hospital, daily P/F ratio within 1 week after hospitalization, survival rate on the 28th day, and discharge survival rate. There were no cases of abdominal compartment syndrome during the observation period. The Modified Brooke formula group failed to achieve the target urine output corresponding to the infusion volume within 8 h after arrival, especially in ≥40% TBSA burn patients, but it did not become a clinical problem. ConclusionWe were unable to conclusively demonstrate that the Modified Brooke formula blocked the occurrence of “fluid creep” in extensively burned patients. However, it was suggested that starting the initial resuscitation at half the conventional volume might contribute to an improved physiological condition in the acute phase of major burns.

Amish Burn Treatment Meets a Major Trauma Centre: Success With Cooperation

The Canadian Charter of Freedom and Rights asks us to be mindful of cultural or religious requests when providing healthcare, however alternative medicine is not commonly considered during acute burn resuscitation despite the value patients may place in it. We present a case study of a 46-year-old Amish gentleman with 22% TBSA (TotalBody Surface Area) deep thermal burns who requested traditional Amish burn wound treatment administered by his community elders while an inpatient at our academic burn centre. This case report illustrates the possibility of successful burn wound healing while respecting the traditional cultural beliefs of a patient and his community. Very little is found in the literature to date that describes the blending of traditional and novel treatments in an academic centre, and this largely unstudied area of medicine may present an opportunity for innovation and further discussion about the incorporation of alternative medicine in burn care.

The use of vasopressors during acute burn resuscitation

BackgroundVasopressors may be required during acute burn resuscitation to support mean arterial blood pressure, but their use is not well-described in the burn literature. The purpose of this study was to examine vasopressor use during acute fluid resuscitation. MethodsRetrospective review of adults with burns ≥ 20% TBSA admitted to an ABA-verified regional burn center. Patients administered an infusion of a vasopressor for at least 30 min during the 1 st 48 h post-burn formed the PRESSOR group while patients who did not receive vasopressors formed the NoPRESSOR group. ResultsWe studied 52 burned adults, 85% of which had flame burns. Vasopressors were administered during resuscitation to 31% of patients. Vasopressor infusions began at 20.9 ± 10.9 h post burn and were continued for 16.8 ± 10.8 h. PRESSOR patients (N = 16) had significantly greater total (p = 0.001) and full thickness burn size (p < 0.001), and need for mechanical ventilation (p = 0.005) than NoPRESSOR patients (N = 36). PRESSOR and NoPRESSOR patients did not differ significantly in per cent predicted fluid volume received in the first 24 h (143 ± 58 Vs. 125 ± 46 respectively). PRESSOR patients compared to NoPRESSOR patients tended to have been administered 5% albumin (Alb) less often (38% Vs 47%) and high dose vitamin C (HDVC) more often during resuscitation (69% vs 17%). Multivariate regression analysis found that patient age (OR 1.189, 95% CI: 1.047, 1.351) and HDVC (OR 24.701, 95% CI: 1.558, 391.551) were independently associated with greater use of vasopressors. An inverse probability weighted propensity analysis also identified a significant association between HDVC and increased use of vasopressors (OR 6.902, 95 % CI: 2.503, 19.026), and significantly decreased vasopressor administration following Alb administration (OR 0.310, 95% CI: 0.130, 0.739). ConclusionAdvanced age appears to be the most important determinant of vasopressor use during resuscitation. While vasopressor requirements appear to have been increased by HDVC and decreased by Alb, this needs to be formally evaluated in a large randomized study.

Orbital Compartment Syndrome Following Major Burn Resuscitation: A Case Series and Survey of Practice Patterns.

Orbital compartment syndrome (OCS) is a rare but devastating complication of over-resuscitation in burn patients that may lead to permanent visual loss. The purpose of this study was to 1) present a series of burn patients with OCS and 2) survey practice patterns of monitoring intra-ocular pressure (IOP) during burn resuscitation. Cases of OCS at two American Burn Association (ABA)-verified burn centers were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were included if they 1) required lateral canthotomy/cantholysis for elevated IOPs or 2) developed blindness on admission unrelated to any other ocular pathology. Data were collected on demographics, burn characteristics, fluid administration, ophthalmologic findings, and complications. An eight-item electronic survey was distributed by email through the ABA to all physician members. Twelve patients with OCS were identified, with a mean age of 47.8 ± 12.4 years and TBSA of 63.7 ± 18.6%. Mean fluid resuscitation at 24 hours was 4.9 ± 1.6 ml/kg/%TBSA or 0.29 ± 0.06 liter/kg. Eight patients underwent canthotomy/cantholysis for OCS, whereas four were later found to have visual loss. A total of 83 (14%) ABA physicians responded to the survey. IOP was routinely measured by 23% of respondents during acute burn resuscitation. OCS appears to have developed despite a relatively low 24-hour ml/kg/% burn resuscitation volume, but with a relatively higher cumulative (liter/kg) fluid volume. Their survey found that monitoring of IOP during burn resuscitation is not routinely performed by the majority of providers. Taken together, the present study suggests clinical guidelines to recognize this complication of over-resuscitation.

Associationbetween hyperoxia and mortality in severely burned patients.

The use of oxygen is a key component of acute burn resuscitation, particularly when there is concern for carbon monoxide toxicity or inhalation injury. Prior studies of critically-ill patients have shown an association between early hyperoxia and increased mortality. There are no studies to date evaluating outcomes related to excessive oxygen administration in burn patients. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 219 severely burned patients to quantify the average amount of oxygen given during initial resuscitation, the level of carbon monoxide exposure, and to determine if early exposure to supratherapeutic oxygen was associated with increased hospital mortality or ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). The models were adjusted for inhalation injury and total body surface area (TBSA) burned. Early hyperoxia in severely burn patients is common and possibly associated with increased overall mortality, although the results were inconclusive and after adjusting for burn-specific scoring systems, we found a negative correlation between hyperoxia and mortality. Confirmed carbon monoxide poisoning was relatively uncommon, but also associated with increased mortality. Patients with elevated carboxyhemoglobin did not receive more oxygen compared to others within the cohort. Burn patients are exposed to higher concentrations of pure oxygen compared to other critically-ill patients, presumably for empiric treatment of carbon monoxide poisoning. Our data showed a liberal use of oxygen therapy across all patients. Considering the potentially negative effects of hyperoxia, this study exposes either a gap in clinical research or need for clearer indications.

701 Outcome Evaluation of High Dose Ascorbic Acid Infusion in Adult Burn Patients

Abstract Introduction High dose ascorbic acid (HDAA) infusion has been associated with lower resuscitation volumes following severe burn injuries. Recent data has linked the use of HDAA to an increased risk of renal failure. HDAA infusion causes an osmotic diuresis which confounds fluid titration. For these two reasons, HDAA has become controversial. The objective of this study is to examine the outcomes of adult burn patients who received HDAA infusion during acute burn resuscitation. Methods This study is an IRB approved retrospective chart review of all adult burn patients admitted from January 2016 through December 2018 who received HDAA for resuscitation. Patients were excluded if age &amp;lt; 18 years, had pre-existing hemodialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease, received &amp;lt; 16 hours of HDAA, or expired/withdrew from care within 48 hours of admission. The primary outcome was the incidence of patients receiving HDAA infusion who required renal replacement therapy (RRT) within 7 days of admission. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS), duration of mechanical ventilation, actual crystalloid volume administered in the first 24 hours compared to estimated volume, ICU length of stay (LOS), and mortality. Results Twenty-four patients were included with a mean age of 48 (+/-16) and a mean TBSA of 49.1% (+/-17.8). The estimated fluid requirements in the 1st 24 hours were calculated using 4mL/kg/TBSA. Four patients required RRT (16.7%) and 12 patients were diagnosed with ACS (50%). The mean volume of crystalloid administered in the 1st 24 hours was 4.7 mL/kg/TBSA (+/-1.9), and the ratio of actual to estimated crystalloid in the 1st 24 hours was 1.2 (+/-0.5). Seventeen patients received albumin therapy in the 1st 24 hours. The mean urine output in 1st 24 hours was 1.7 mL/kg/hr. Mean duration of mechanical ventilation and ICU LOS was 15 and 16 days respectively. Thirteen patients died (54.2%). Conclusions The incidence of patients requiring RRT, along with the crystalloid volume administered and the observed to expected ratio of crystalloids in the 1st 24 hours were comparable to recent literature. The known effect of osmotic diuresis from HDAA potentially impacted fluid titration practice, increasing the risk of complications from over-resuscitation such as ACS, and mortality. Additionally, the estimation of 24-hour fluid requirements using 4mL/kg/TBSA may have contributed to the rates of ACS. Further studies comparing fluid management strategies are necessary. Applicability of Research to Practice This study describes the outcomes associated with HDAA during acute burn resuscitation at an adult burn center. Given the current controversy surrounding HDAA infusion, this study provides further data to help burn centers make a decision regarding their opinion of HDAA during acute burn resuscitation.

85 Safety and Efficacy of Early Fresh Frozen Plasma Administration in Burn Resuscitation

Abstract Introduction Controversy exists over the use of colloid required for burn resuscitation. Data show that fresh frozen plasma (FFP) may have benefits beyond volume sparing alone, however, there are inherent risks including transfusion related acute lung injury (TRALI) and transfusion reactions (TR). The aims of this project were: (1) determine the effectiveness of early FFP during burn resuscitation, and (2) to document any potential side effects of FFP administration. Methods A retrospective review was performed on all burn patients aged &amp;gt;18 years old with &amp;gt;20% total body surface area (TBSA) burns who underwent resuscitation using our nursing guided resuscitation protocol (NGRP) from November 2016- June 2019 at our ABA- verified burn center. Excluded were those with electrical injury, delayed resuscitation, polytrauma, renal replacement therapy and or death within 24 hours (hrs) of injury. Pursuant to the NGRP all patients with &amp;gt;30% TBSA burns received FFP at 6–8 hrs post injury. Data recorded included: demographics, % TBSA burned, total crystalloid/FFP, and urine output (UO). An hourly resuscitation ratio (I/O ratio) of fluid given (ml/kg/%TBSA/hr) to UO (ml/kg/hr) was calculated. FFP initiation was standardized to time zero. Major complications such as abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), TRALI and TR were documented. Univariate statistical analysis was performed. Results Over the study period 71 patients required NGRP resuscitation, 56 met inclusion criteria. Baseline demographics included: 47 male (84%), median age 34 years [IQR 27–53], median TBSA 30% [range 20–95%]. 40 patients were resuscitated with FFP versus 16 patients resuscitated with crystalloid alone. Median time to FFP administration was 7 hours [IQR 6–8] with an average of 1866 ml infused [779–4484]. Those who received FFP had larger % TBSA burns median 41% [29–57] vs no FFP 22% [20–24], p&amp;lt; 0.001. Median I/O ratio at FFP initiation improved from 1.0 [IQR 0.4–3.7] to 0.4 [IQR 0.2–1.5, p=0.01] at 2 hrs post FFP, see Graph. Median UOP improved from 0.18 cc/kg/hr the 2 hrs prior to FFP administration, to 0.44 cc/kg/hr at 2 hrs post FFP (p=0.01). Total 24 hour fluids given (cc/kg/% TBSA) were similar in both groups: FFP 3.94 [3.49–5.36] vs no FFP 3.92 [3.54–4.53], p=0.77. There were no reported incidents of ACS, ARDS, TRALI, or TR. Conclusions The use of FFP in burn resuscitation significantly improves UOP and normalizes I/O ratios. FFP administration did not cause any serious complications. Applicability of Research to Practice Future research efforts should focus on comparing albumin vs FFP in acute burn resuscitation.

Understanding the role of serum lactate as an end point in burn resuscitation

Context: Fluid resuscitation plays a significant role in burns treatment. Inappropriate resuscitation impacts morbidity and mortality. Urine output (UO), the current gold standard, alone, is not an adequate end point of fluid resuscitation in burns. Hence, we studied the utility of serum lactate levels as a reliable marker and end point of resuscitation. Aims: (a) To understand the role of serum lactate levels in burns as end point in acute burn resuscitation and (b) To assess its sensitivity and specificity. Settings and Design: Tertiary care hospital, urban setting, and cross-sectional study. Subjects and Methods: The study was done from September 2015 to July 2017. Sixty-four patients with thermal burns were included. Serum lactate levels were recorded at arrival, 8 h, 16 h, 24 h, and 48 h interval postburn incident. Hourly UO heart rate and mean arterial pressure were recorded for the outcome measures. Statistical Analysis Used: Chi-square test and nonparametric Mann–Whitney U-test. P ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: (a) The initial serum lactate levels at presentation were directly proportional to: The total body surface area and percent deep component of burns sustained Delay in starting resuscitation. b. Time taken for serum lactate levels to normalize is directly proportional to initial serum lactate level. At 16 h, serum lactate showed (94%) specificity, (53%) sensitivity, and at 48 h (85%) sensitivity, (44%) specificity. Conclusions: Serum lactate levels can help to monitor the adequacy of fluid resuscitation in burns. Serum lactate and UO, both, should be taken into consideration to determine the end point of resuscitation.

A Review on the Use of Plasma During Acute Burn Resuscitation.

The problem of fluid creep has generated renewed interest in the use of colloids during acute burn resuscitation. Currently, human albumin solution is usually chosen as the resuscitation colloid. However, human plasma was a fundamental component of numerous burn resuscitation formulas historically, but it largely fell out of favor due to concerns surrounding transmission of infectious viruses. Nevertheless, plasma is an effective volume expander which has been demonstrated to reduce overall volume requirements during burn resuscitation. Furthermore, plasma may have beneficial effects on the endothelium by diminishing the microvascular leak that follows a major burn injury. Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is now much safer from a disease transmission standpoint, and newer forms of solvent-detergent-treated plasma and lyophilized plasma offer potentially even greater safety and efficacy. The use of FFP and newer forms of plasma, which have not been extensively studied, should be investigated as potential adjuncts to acute burn resuscitation.

200 Monitoring Intra-ocular Pressure in Burn Patients Undergoing Fluid Resuscitation: A Survey of Practice Patterns

Orbital compartment syndrome (OCS) is a rare but devastating complication of over-resuscitation in burn patients that may lead to permanent visual loss. Diagnosis is performed at the bedside by measuring the intra-ocular pressure (IOP). If recognized early, OCS can be treated by lateral canthotomy. The purpose of this study was to survey practice patterns of monitoring IOP and performing canthotomy during burn resuscitation. An eight-question electronic survey was distributed to “all physician members” of the American Burn Association between April and June 2018. Two follow-up reminder emails were sent to encourage participation. Eighty-three responses were received (14 % response rate). IOP was routinely measured by 23% of respondents during acute burn resuscitation. Of those respondents, the most common criteria to initiate IOP measurements were deep peri-orbital burns (74%), total burn size (68%), and the volume of resuscitation (63%). Ophthalmology services were primarily responsible for measuring IOP (84%), and there was a range of described frequencies (every four hours to daily) and durations (one to four days) to monitor these patients. The most frequent indications for decompression of the orbit were IOP > 30 mmHg (54%), deep peri-orbital burns (30%), concurrent abdominal compartment syndrome (7%), and the recommendation of the Ophthalmology Consultant (6%). Canthotomy was performed more often by an ophthalmologist (60%) than by a burn surgeon (18%). Of the respondents, 22% indicated that a burn patient treated at their facility had experienced partial or complete visual loss from suspected orbital compartment syndrome. IOP during acute burn resuscitation does not appear to be routinely monitored. The Ophthalmology service most commonly monitors IOP and most often performs orbital decompression when indicated. No clear pattern emerged for the frequency or duration of monitoring patients for OCS. This is the first study to describe practice patterns of monitoring IOP during burn resuscitation. There exists an opportunity to develop guidelines in collaboration with Ophthalmology to identify patients at risk for OCS with the aim of early intervention and prevention of serious ocular complications.

31 Implementation of Provincial Adult Burn Clinical Practice Guidelines and their Impact on Patient Outcomes

In 2011, our institution implemented province clinical practice guidelines were implemented in 2011 to standardize acute burn management and resuscitation practices to optimize consistency in patient care prior to transport to a designated burn center. A retrospective review was performed to evaluate the impact of these guidelines on burn patient care since their implementation. A review of patients admitted at our burn center between 2011–2016 after the implementation of the 2011 provincial burn guidelines was performed evaluating TBSA estimation, resuscitation records and clinical outcomes. Study inclusion required patients greater than 18 years old with a TBSA burn injury larger than 15%. Patients were categorized into groups based on treatment adherence to the 2011 guidelines and if they were treated initially peripherally or directly at our quaternary burn center. Results were compared previous burn outcome data obtained prior to guideline implementation. A total of ninety-five patients met the study inclusion criteria. In the first 24 hours after acute burn injury, the patients that were initially managed peripherally and then transferred, received an average of 5.8cc/kg/%TBSA of fluids when there was no evidence of guideline adherence. If the guidelines were implemented only after transferred to our center, patients received an average of 5.0cc/kg/%TBSA. For burns patients where guidelines were utilized both peripherally and after transfer, an average 4.0cc/kg/%TBSA was used for resuscitation. Complications such as respiratory failure (17% vs. 11%), abdominal compartment syndrome (4% vs. 0%) and acute kidney injury (50% vs. 33%) more frequently developed when the guidelines were implemented only after transfer to our burn center. The implementation of new clinical practice guidelines to aid in fluid resuscitation following major burns has decreased IV fluid administration for patients initially assessed in peripheral low volume centers. Early guideline implementation may decrease burn associated systemic morbidities. This research reinforces the importance of standardizing treatment practices to improve burn patient care and discusses the obstacles associated with disseminating specialized clinical skills and knowledge.

203 Vasopressor Use During Acute Fluid Resuscitation in Burn Patients

It is not known why some burn patients require vasopressor (VP) drugs during the acute fluid resuscitation phase. The purpose of this study was to evaluate factors that predict VP administration during acute burn resuscitation. Retrospective analysis of patients with burns ≥ 20% TBSA admitted within 24 hours post burn (PB) to an adult regional ABA-verified burn center between 11/15/15 and 7/1/17. Patients that received a VP in the 1st 48 hours (PRESS) were compared to those who did not (NOPRESS). Values are shown as the mean ± SD or median (1st, 3rd quartiles) as appropriate. There were 49 patients that met inclusion criteria. Following exclusion for VP administration prior to arrival at the BC (n=3) or provision of comfort measures ≤ 24 hours PB (n=9), a study population of 37 subjects remained. This population’s characteristics were age 47 ± 16 yrs, 35% female, with %TBSA burn 32 (24.5,49.2) and % full thickness burn 20.5 (3.3,39.8), and 32% with inhalation injury (INH). In the PRESS group, VPs were initiated at 24.3 ± 13 h PB, and were continued for 13.9 ± 10.5 h during the 1st 48 h PB period. The total amount of resuscitation fluid administered up to the initiation of VPs was 4.1 ± 2.2 mL/kg/%TBSA burn, and at the start of VPs, 119.6 ± 55.1 % of predicted resuscitation fluid had been infused. The 1st VP was norepinephrine in all cases. Vasopressin was added in two cases and epinephrine was added in 4 cases. PRESS and NOPRESS are compared in the table. There were no differences between the groups in % of predicted resuscitation fluid administered at 6,12, and 24 h PB, urine output, use of propofol for sedation, or the dose of opioids and benzodiazepines at 24 and 48 hours PB. High dose vitamin C had been used in 47% of PRESS resuscitations and in 23% of NOPRESS resuscitations (p=0.127). Only age was a significant predictor of need for VPs [OR 1.17 (95%CI: 1.01–1.36)]. Advanced age appears to be the main predictor of the need to initiate VPs during acute fluid resuscitation after burns. However, this study is limited by a small sample size and other factors may be contributory. VPs may be required in older patients despite acceptable fluid provision, during acute burn resuscitation.

Addressing the Barriers to Bioimpedance Spectroscopy Use in Major Burns: Alternate Electrode Placement.

Bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) is a method used to assess body composition and fluid distribution. As a technology for measurement of fluid shifts during acute burn resuscitation, there are potential barriers to its use due to the location of wounds. This study aimed to determine whether alternate electrode positions were a suitable alternative compared to standardized (manufacturer) positions in moderate to large size burns for the measurement of BIS resistance and fluid changes. BIS measurements were collected in standard and alternate electrode placements and in an open wound and Acticoat™ dressing condition. A percentage difference greater than 5% between each standard and alternate placement BIS measurements was deemed clinically significant. Chi-square tests determined there were no significant differences (P = .097-.96) between the standard and alternate electrode placements for whole body and limb segment BIS in both dressing conditions. Only whole body BIS resistance variables and extracellular fluid volumes were interchangeable in both dressing conditions and upper limb segmental measures were interchangeable in an open wound only. The differences between measurements of other BIS variables across the conditions were not acceptable or deemed not clinically acceptable without adjustment. The results showed that for moderate to large burn injuries clinicians can use whole body and upper limb segmental BIS variables to monitor changes in fluid shifts with alternate electrode placements where wounds preclude standardized placement within specified dressing conditions.

Point-of-care B-type natriuretic peptide and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin measurements for acute resuscitation: a pilot study.

Adequate resuscitation is paramount to burn patient survival and recovery. Novel biomarkers of intravascular volume and renal perfusion may augment resuscitation strategies. The purpose of this study is to characterize serum B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) during burn resuscitation and correlate to clinical assessments of volume status. We hypothesize that BNP and NGAL will help predict inadequate resuscitation during the first 48 hours following burn injury. We conducted a pilot observational study recruiting 15 adult (age ≥18 years) patients with ≥20% TBSA burns. Paired serial BNP, NGAL, and creatinine measurements were performed using point-of-care testing. Samples were tested every 4 hours for the first 48 hours following admission. Acute kidney injury (AKI) was defined by the RIFLE criteria. Over-resuscitation was defined as developing compartment syndrome. Demographics and TBSA were similar between AKI (n = 7) vs non-AKI (n = 8), and over-resuscitated (n = 5) vs adequately resuscitated groups (n = 10). NGAL (184.9 ± 72.2 vs 110.8 ± 35.8 ng/ml, P = .004) and BNP (25.3 ± 17.3 vs 8.8 ± 5.2 pg/ml, P = .033) values were significantly higher in AKI patients. Creatinine values were similar between AKI and non-AKI patients. NGAL levels suggested presence of AKI 12 hours earlier than creatinine levels. BNP values (23.1 ± 21.9 vs 13.9 ± 13.4 pg/ml, P < .001) were significantly higher in over-resuscitated patients. Point-of-care BNP, NGAL, and creatinine measurements aid in the assessment of vascular volume and renal function during acute burn resuscitation. Further studies are warranted to determine BNP and NGAL cut-offs for guiding burn resuscitation.

Development and evaluation of a novel smart device-based application for burn assessment and management

We have developed a novel software application that provides a simple and interactive Lund–Browder diagram for automatic calculation of total body surface area (TBSA) burned, fluid formula recommendations, and serial wound photography on a smart device platform. The software was developed for the iPad (Apple, Cupertino, CA) smart device platforms. Ten burns ranging from 5 to 95% TBSA were computer generated on a patient care simulator using Adobe Photoshop CS6 (Adobe, San Jose, CA). Burn clinicians calculated the TBSA first using a paper-based Lund–Browder diagram. Following a one-week “washout period”, the same clinicians calculated TBSA using the smart device application. Simulated burns were presented in a random fashion and clinicians were timed. Percent TBSA burned calculated by Peregrine vs. the paper-based Lund–Browder were similar (29.53 [25.57] vs. 28.99 [25.01], p=0.22, n=7). On average, Peregrine allowed users to calculate burn size significantly faster than the paper form (58.18 [31.46] vs. 90.22 [60.60]s, p<0.001, n=7). The smart device application also provided 5 megapixel photography capabilities, and acute burn resuscitation fluid calculator. We developed an innovative smart device application that enables accurate and rapid burn size assessment to be cost-effective and widely accessible.