Median Total Body Surface Area Research Articles

The Use of a Polylactic Membrane in Pediatric Burns Proves to be Successful Even After Late Application.

The Polylactide membrane (PLM) is a biosynthetic dressing that mimics properties of the human epithelium. Herein we describe our experience on the use of PLM in pediatric burns. All pediatric burn patients admitted to the Pediatric Surgery Department between November 2019 and November 2021 and submitted to PLM application were selected. Clinical and demographic data were collected retrospectively. Seventy-seven patients with a median age of 1.8 years were included. The median total body surface area was 6% (2-20%), and burns were mainly mixed-partial thickness. PLM was applied at a median of 5 days post-burn (IQR 3-6), usually under sedation (43/77). After PLM application, the median healing time (HT) was 10 days (IQR 8-14). HT was significantly higher in deep-partial thickness burns vs. mixed superficial-deep (P = .015) and superficial burn areas (P = .006). No correlation was found between HT and the timing of PLM application. The grafting rate due to clinical misevaluation was 2.7%, one infection was found. The PLM is a promising way for treating partial-thickness burns, even when applied later during treatment. Shorter HT, the decreased need for dressing changes, and the potential of sparing of donor sites and pain reduction are its main advantages.

1207. Epidemiology and Timing of Infectious Complications from Battlefield-Related Burn Injuries

Abstract Background Thermal injury alters the host response, making burn patients more susceptible to infections. In fact, infections represent the most frequent complication and cause of mortality in burn patients. We describe the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, timing, and outcomes of infections among wounded military personnel with burns. Methods Data were collected through the Trauma Infectious Disease Outcomes Study, an observational study of US service members injured in Iraq and Afghanistan (6/09-12/14). Patients who sustained ≥1 burn injury and were admitted to the Burn Center at Brooke Army Medical Center were included in the analysis. Infections were defined using standardized criteria. For patients with multiple infections, only the initial infection was assessed. Results Among 144 burn patients, 99% were males and 62% had combat-related burns with a median total body surface area (TBSA) of 6% (IQR 3-14%) thermally injured. Infections were diagnosed in 26 (18%) patients with pneumonia being the predominant initial syndrome (N=16, 62%), followed by skin and soft-tissue infections (N=6, 23%), bloodstream infections (N=3, 12%), and intra-abdominal infections (N=1, 4%). Median number of days to each of these initial infecting syndromes were 4 (IQR 3-5), 7 (IQR 4-12), 7 (IQR 6-7), and 17 (IQR 17-17) days, respectively. Patients with infections were more severely injured with greater TBSA (median 31 vs 5) and Baux scores (median 59 vs 29), and were more likely to have combat trauma, inhalation injury, require mechanical ventilation, and have longer time to definitive grafting (Table 1). Microbiology of initial infections varied with 35% of patients having polymicrobial infections (Table 2). Gram-negative organisms were recovered from 20 (77%) patients, of whom 20% had a multidrug-resistant Gram-negative. Gram-positive organisms and fungi were identified in 42% and 8% of patients, respectively. Conclusion Improved understanding of risk factors and the timing of infections in this unique population is critical for effective management. Patients with infections were more severely injured, had higher rates of inhalational injury, and longer days to definitive grafting. Initial infections were more commonly pneumonia. Disclosures David R. Tribble, DrPH, AstraZeneca: The HJF, in support of the USU IDCRP, was funded to conduct or augment unrelated Phase III Mab and vaccine trials as part of US Govt. COVID19 response.

CLASSIC IL-6 SIGNALING IS ASSOCIATED WITH POOR OUTCOMES IN BURN PATIENTS.

Background: Interleukin (IL)-6 is a multifunctional cytokine with both a proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory role. In many studies, IL-6 increases rapidly after burn injury and is associated with poor outcomes. However, there are two aspects to IL-6; it can signal via its soluble IL-6 receptor (sIL-6R), which is referred to as trans-signaling and is regarded as the proinflammatory pathway. The role of sIL-6R postburn injury has yet to be explored in its entirety. We hypothesized that patients with a lower ratio of IL-6 to sIL-6R would have worse outcomes. Methods: Patients admitted to our burn center within 7 days of injury were included in this study. Patients were divided into two groups based on IL-6 and sIL-6R levels measured within the first 7 days postburn injury. Patients were in the high ratio group if their IL-6/sIL-6R ratio was ≥0.185. Clinical outcomes included organ biomarkers, morbidities, and hospital length of stay. Groups were compared using Student's t test, Mann-Whitney U , and Fisher's exact test as appropriate; a P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: We studied 86 patients with a median age of 50 years (36-66 years) and a median total body surface area burn of 18% (10-31). There were 40 patients categorized with a low IL-6/sIL-6R ratio and 46 patients with a high IL-6/sIL-6R ratio. Patients in the high IL-6/sIL-6R ratio group had a significantly greater total body surface area burn ( P < 0.001) and a significantly greater proportion of patients with inhalation injury ( P = 0.001). Levels of IL-6 were significantly higher in patients with a high IL-6/sIL-6R ratio ( P < 0.0001). However, levels of sIL-6R were not significantly different among the low and high groups ( P = 0.965). Mortality was significantly greater in the high IL-6/sIL-6R ratio group (3% vs. 26%; P = 0.002). Conclusions: Interestingly, patients with a higher ratio of IL-6/sIL-6R had significantly greater mortality. Using sIL-6R as a marker for the proinflammatory immune response, we expected patients with a lower IL-6/sIL-6R ratio to have poor outcomes, typically associated with a hyperinflammatory or exaggerated immune response. However, the absolute value of sIL-6R did not differ. This suggests that classical signaling of IL-6 via its membrane-bound receptor, with an anti-inflammatory function, is important.

Global Disparities in Burn Outcomes: Does Gender Predict Mortality in the Global Burn Registry?

IntroductionGlobal burn injury burden disproportionately impacts low- and middle-income countries. Surgery is a mainstay of burn treatment, yet access to surgical care appears to be inequitably distributed for women. This study sought to identify gender disparities in mortality and access to surgery for burn patients in the World Health Organization Global Burn Registry (GBR). MethodsWe queried the World Health Organization GBR for a retrospective cohort (2016-2021). Patients were stratified by sex. Outcomes of interest were in-hospital mortality and surgical treatment. Patient demographics, injury characteristics, outcomes, and health facility resources were compared between sexes with Wilcoxon rank sum test for nonparametric medians, and chi-squared or Fisher’s exact test for nonparametric proportions. Multivariable logistic regressions were performed to assess the relationships between sex and mortality, and sex and surgery. ResultsOf 8445 patients in the GBR from 20 countries (10 low resource), 40% of patients were female, with 51% of all patients receiving surgical treatment during their hospitalization. Female patients had a higher incidence of mortality (24% versus 15%, P < 0.001) and a higher median total body surface area (20% versus 15%, P < 0.001), yet a lower incidence of surgery (47% versus 53%, P < 0.001) following burn injury when compared to males. In multivariable analysis, female sex was independently associated with mortality after controlling for age, time to presentation, smoke injury, percent total body surface area, surgery, and country income status. Female sex was independently associated with surgical care (odds ratio 0.86, P = 0.001). ConclusionsFemale burn patients suffer higher mortality compared to males and are less likely to receive surgery. Further study into this gender disparity in burns is warranted.

Exploring the Past to Inform the Future to Optimize the Pharmacokinetics of Vancomycin in Children With Severe Burn Injuries.

Sepsis remains one of the leading causes of death among pediatric patients with burn injuries. Despite limited vancomycin pharmacokinetic (PK) information within this population, it is widely used to treat severe burn injuries. Those with severe burns are at risk of nephrotoxicity, with an incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) over 50%. Delivering an effective vancomycin dose and avoiding unnecessary toxicity is essential for improved patient outcomes. This was a retrospective analysis of 115 children aged 0.2 months to 18 years with severe burns, >10% total body surface area. Vancomycin was given via intravenous infusion; blood samples were drawn between 6- and 12-hour postinfusion. A population pharmacokinetic model was developed using nonlinear mixed-effect modeling (Monolix, version 2016R1). A one-compartment model described a steady-state volume of distribution (V), dependent on weight. Vancomycin clearance (CL) was influenced by age and estimated creatinine clearance (CrCL). The study population's (median age = 4 years, median weight = 20 kg, median total body surface area (%TBSA) = 40%) median V and CL were calculated to be 1.25 L/kg (95% CI, 1.04-1.46) and 0.15 L/h/kg (95% CI, 0.126-0.165), respectively. The PK model was explicitly developed to characterize the impact of physiological changes in children under 18 years of age and the percentage of the burn surface area using limited data. The analysis determined that weight, age, and estimated CrCL were important covariates in predicting vancomycin PK with high variability in CL and V.

Safety and Efficacy of Propofol- and Ketamine-Based Procedural Sedation Regimen in Pediatric Patients During Burn Repetitive Dressing Change: 10 Years Single Center Experience.

It is crucial to provide an adequate level of sedation and analgesia during burn dressing changes in the pediatric population due to the amount of pain and anxiety patients experience during the procedure. To evaluate the safety and efficacy of an intensivist-based deep sedation regimen using a combination of propofol and ketamine to provide procedural sedation to pediatric burn patients. This is a retrospective chart review of pediatric patients who underwent inpatient burn wound dressing changes from 2011 through 2021. Demographic and clinical data, including age, length of the procedure, recovery time, medication doses, and adverse events, were collected. A total of 104 patients aged between 45 and 135 months with a median total burn body surface area (TBSA) of 11.5 percent (interquartile range [IQR] 4.0, 25.0) underwent 378 procedural sedation encounters with propofol- and ketamine-based sedation. The median total dose of propofol was 7 mg/kg (IRQ 5.3, 9.2). Of these sedations, 64 (17 percent) had minor adverse events, of which 50 (13 percent) were transient hypoxemia, 12 (3 percent) were upper airway obstruction, and 2 (0.5 percent) were hypotension. There were no serious adverse events. Hypoxemia was not related to age, weight, gender, burn TBSA, or total dose of propofol. There were 35 (33.6 percent) patients who had repetitive sedation encounters with no statistically significant changes in propofol dose or adverse events with the repeated encounters. Children can be effectively sedated for repetitive inpatient burn dressing changes. Given the high-risk patient populations, this procedure should be performed under the vigilance of highly trained providers.

Rajindra Singh Gill

<h3>Background</h3> Low/middle-income countries carry a disproportionate burden of the morbidity and mortality from thermal burns. Nearly 70% of burn deaths worldwide are from thermal burns in India. Delays to medical...

Extracorporeal Life Support for Severely Burned Patients with Concurrent Inhalation Injury and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Experience from a Military Medical Burn Center

BackgroundBoth inhalation injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are risk factors that predict mortality in severely burned patients. Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is widely used to rescue these patients; however, its efficacy and safety in this critical population have not been well defined. We report our experience of using ECLS for the treatment of severely burned patients with concurrent inhalation injury and ARDS. MethodsThis was a retrospective analysis of 14 patients collected from a single medical burn center from 2012 to 2019. All patients suffered from major burns with inhalation injury and ARDS, and were treated with ECLS. ResultsThe median total body surface area of deep dermal or full thickness burns was 94.5%, ranging 47.7-99.0 %. The median revised Baux score was 122.0, ranging 90.0-155.0. All patients developed ARDS with a median partial pressure of arterial oxygen to a fraction of inspired oxygen ratio of 61.5, ranging 49.0-99.0. Indications for ECLS included sustained hypoxemia and unstable hemodynamics. The median interval for initiating ECLS was 2.5 days, ranging 1.0-156.0 days. The median duration of ECLS was 2.9 days, ranging 0.3-16.7 days. The overall survival to discharge was 42.8%. Causes of death included sepsis and multiple organ failure. ECLS-related complications included cannulation bleeding, catheter-related infection, and hemolysis. The incidence of risk factors reported in literature were higher in non-survivors, including Baux>120, albumin < 3.0 g/dL, and lactate > 8 mmol/L. ConclusionsFor severely burned patients with concurrent inhalation injury and ARDS, ECLS could be a salvage treatment to improve sustained hypoxemia. However, the efficacy of hemodynamic support was limited. Identifying definite ECLS indications and rigorous patient selection would contribute to better clinical outcomes.

A practical formula for fluid resuscitation in acute paediatric burns in a low resource setting: A pilot study

BackgroundAppropriate fluid resuscitation of acute burn injury is critical and there are recognized challenges with fluid resuscitation, including those with relevance to low resource settings. We developed a practical protocol that guides burn resuscitation and sought to evaluate the safety of our modified resuscitation formula through a small pilot study that particularly addresses the problems we have experienced in a low resource setting. MethodsChildren with burns more than 15% total body surface area admitted within 24 h of injury to Edendale Hospital between 1 June 2021 and 31 August 2021 were included. The resuscitation formula used was 2 mls of Ringers Lactate per bodyweight in kilograms per% total body surface area (TBSA) given over 24 h and adjusted according to urine output. Data analysed included age, weight, mechanism, TBSA, hours post burn at presentation to hospital, total fluid given in the first 24 h of admission, total urine output in the first 24 h of admission, number of fluid adjustments made during the first 24 h and complications related to fluid resuscitation. ResultsTen children were included. The median age was 3 (IQR 2–5) years old, with a mean weight of 14.9 (SD 5.07) kilograms, a median TBSA of 17.4 (IQR 16–26)%, presenting at a median of 12 (6.5–18) hours post burn injury. Mechanism of burn was scald in all cases, with 9 being hot water and hot food in one. In the first 24 h a mean of 2.05 (SD 0.58) mls/kg of fluid was received with a mean urine output of 1.66 (SD 0.57) mls/kg/hr. ConclusionThe results of this pilot study to evaluate the safety of our protocol seem reasonable. It is limited by the lack of larger injuries as well as adult patients and a larger prospective study is pertinent.

806 Foot burns in diabetic patients: A systematic review

IntroductionPatients with diabetes are prone to foot injuries and burns. Managing burned feet in patients with diabetes can be difficult due to multiple concomitant patient comorbidities that delay wound healing. Burn surgeons tasked with treating these complex foot burns understand that these patients are at risk of developing significant complications, such as infections and non-healing diabetic foot ulcers, which may ultimately lead to amputation. Although there are many studies that examine the causes and outcomes of diabetic foot ulcers and their management, there is a lack of consensus on how to best manage lower extremity burns in patients with diabetes.MethodsA systematic review was performed according to PRISMA criteria and identified 18 articles addressing the management of burned feet in patients with diabetes. Means and standard deviations of scale variables and frequencies derived from nominal and ordinal variables abstracted from the literature were compared between each group. A meta-analysis was attempted but existing data was not of sufficient quality for meaningful analysis, and data aggregation was done where applicable.ResultsThe three-database search identified 726 articles, which yielded 18 full text articles that met inclusion criteria. mean age of patients was 54 years (SD 7), and 80% (n=203) were male. Most (90%, n=179) had type II diabetes, and 10% (n=20) had Type I diabetes. Mean duration of diabetic disease was 11 years (SD 4), and mean A1c at admission was 9% (SD 1). Peripheral neuropathy (64%, n=123) was the most common comorbidity. Median TBSA burned was 2% (IQR 2), and scald (56%, n=155) was the most common mechanism of injury. Full thickness burns (70%, n=102) were most common, followed by partial thickness (28%, n=41), and superficial thickness (2%, n=2). A majority (55%, n=88) had burn wound infection identified at admission. Patients had a median delay in presentation from time of injury to hospital admission of 4 days (IQR 4.5). Sixty percent of patients received surgical treatment via excision and grafting, had a median length-of-stay of 20.5 days despite a median total body surface area involvement of 2%, and experienced sequelae of impaired wound healing such as infections, graft loss, and need for further surgery. Ultimately, 23% of patients had significant wound healing issues that resulted in amputation.ConclusionsExcision and grafting may not be the optimal approach for managing foot burns in patients with diabetes, many of whom are at high risk of amputation. Non-operative management of foot burns in patients with diabetes should be explored as a method to decrease amputations in patients with foot burns.

75 Patient Reported Outcome Measures Associated with Burn Severity

IntroductionBurns continue to be a leading cause of unintentional injury sustained by children. The lasting effects of burn treatment on pediatric patients’ quality of life are still poorly understood. Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) is a reliable tool that evaluates a patient’s physical, mental, and social health. To measure the impact of burn injuries on quality of life, we integrated the use of PROMIS into our outpatient clinic. Our aim for this study is to determine the effects of patient demographics, burn treatment, and burn characteristics on PROMIS scores.MethodsA retrospective review of patient and PROMIS data collected at our institution from June 2016 to August 2019 was conducted. Patient demographics, burn injury characteristics, PROMIS Pediatric Mobility, Upper Extremity, Pain Interference, and Peer Relationships scores were collected. Statistical analysis was conducted using Wilcoxon Two-Sample Test, Chi-Square, and Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient.Results163 pediatric burn patients completed PROMIS questionnaires. The median injury age was 5.94 years (interquartile range (IQR)= 6.9) and had a median total body surface area of 15% (IQR = 25.5). Individual burn characteristics did not impact Peer Relationships scores; however, they did have a significant effect on Upper Extremity, Mobility, and to a lesser extent, Pain Interference scores. Older injury age (-0.24, p = 0.02), longer length of stay (-0.25, p = 0.02), larger total body surface area (-0.27, p = 0.009), and more operating room visits (-0.28, p = 0.006), were associated with worse Upper Extremity scores. Similarly, older injury age (-0.2, p = 0.04), longer length of stay (-0.25, p = 0.01), more days in the intensive care unit (-0.24, p = 0.01), and more operating room visits (-0.26, p = 0.01) impacted Mobility scores. Worse Pain Interference scores were correlated with longer length of stay (0.24, p=0.01), and larger total body surface area (0.19, p=0.05). Upper Extremity scores correlated with Mobility scores (0.60, p < 0.0001); Pain Interference (-0.23, p < 0.02) and Upper Extremity (0.3, p < 0.003) scores correlated with Peer Relationships scores; and Upper Extremity (-0.48, p < 0.0001) and Mobility (-0.42, p < 0.0001) scores correlated with Pain Interference scores.ConclusionsPeer Relationships scores are not influenced by patient demographics or burn characteristics. This is in contrast with Upper Extremity, Mobility, and Pain Interference scores which are all directly affected by burn characteristics. The patients’ impression of their upper extremity function has the greatest impact on their perceived pain, peer relationships, and mobility.

726 Evaluating Outcomes and Pharmacoeconomics Associated with Collagenase Use in Burn Patients

IntroductionCollagenase is routinely used for partial thickness burns at our health-system. A 30 gram tube costs over $300, which creates financial challenges for uninsured patients and impacts revenue capture. The objective of this medication utilization evaluation was to characterize the use of collagenase and evaluate compliance to our institution’s criteria for use.MethodsAll admitted patients who received collagenase for burn injury from 3/14/21 to 6/14/21 were included. Patients were excluded if they were not admitted to the burn unit or left against medical advice. A cost analysis was also conducted.ResultsA total of 26 patients were included with a mean (SD) age of 45 (17) years. Most burns were thermal (77%) with a median (IQR) of 7.5% (1.9,13.5) total body surface area (TBSA). Twenty-three patients presented with mixed partial thickness or partial thickness burns (89%). The three remaining patients had full thickness burns, which is not an indication for collagenase use at our institution. There was a median of 1 (0,1) collagenase treatment day per TBSA. Median length of hospital stay was 5 (2,22) days with a length of stay per TBSA of 1 (1,2). Approximately 58% of patients required a surgical procedure. Of these, 8 had documented graft loss or failure while 7 did not. In those who experienced graft loss, median TBSA was higher [31.4 (7.8,57.5) vs. 10 (2.5,15); p = 0.269] and they required more surgeries [7 (1,9) vs. 1 (1,3); p = 0.104]. A potential total revenue of $428,280 was found. Additional cost data are provided in Table 1.ConclusionsThere was a high level of compliance with criteria for use, with some opportunities for improvement. Over 40% of patients who received collagenase for partial thickness burns were treated non-operatively, supporting its likely benefit, despite the cost. The potential exists for significant revenue for the health-system.

516 Phosphorus Requirements in Patients with Severe Thermal Injuries Requiring High-Volume Hemofiltration

IntroductionPatients with thermal injuries have increased metabolic demands, requiring increased phosphate supplementation. Evidence is scant depicting incidence of hypophosphatemia and repletion requirements in patients with thermal injuries treated with high-volume hemofiltration (HVHF) and a high-flux membrane. The objective of this study was to determine the incidence of hypophosphatemia and characterize repletion requirements in this population.MethodsThis study was a case-control, retrospective chart review. Patients were included if sustained at least 20% total body surface area (TBSA) thermal injuries and required continuous HVHF (prescribed doses ≥ 35 mL/kg/hr). A randomly selected cohort (matched to age, TBSA, and inhalation injury) without acute kidney injury (AKI) was used to compare phosphorus requirements over an initial 14 day period. An a priori sample size was calculated (n = 26) to detect a minimum difference of 0.3 mmol/kg/day. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare requirements and concentrations. Demographics, diet, and variables affecting phosphorus concentrations were compared utilizing Fisher's exact, Student's t-test, or Mann-Whitney test depending on type and distribution.ResultsOne thousand sixty-six patients were screened. Most were excluded from the HVHF group for TBSA < 20% (58%) or not a burn injury (29%). Sixteen patients were included in each group. The average age was 60.2 ± 15.1 vs 53.3 ± 16.4 (p = 0.22) with median TBSA (p = 0.73) of 30% (23.4, 56.3) vs 29% (26.4, 33.9). All patients in the study group were started on HVHF for AKI, utilizing a 1.6m2 polyethersulfone membrane (mean delivered prefilter dose of 54.7 ± 1.5 ml/kg/hr), and had statistically higher potassium and phosphorous laboratory values at baseline. Parenteral phosphorus replacements were 2 fold higher in the HVHF group (p = 0.02), but not statistically different after accounting for estimated enteral intake. Despite providing 0.75 mmol/kg/day of phosphorous supplementation (vs 0.66 mmol/kg/day in control, p = 0.45), the HVHF group experienced more days with hypophosphatemia (49.6 ± 12.4 % vs 29.3 ± 16.3 %, p = 0.012). By 72h, every HVHF patient experienced at least one episode of hypophosphatemia. Patients on longer durations of therapy had increasing risk of hypophosphatemia. There was a significant difference in days requiring mechanical ventilation (p < 0.001)ConclusionsThis study demonstrates thermally injured patients receiving HVHF for AKI are at increased risk for hypophosphatemia and require higher phosphate supplementation to maintain lower average serum concentrations, as compared to the controls with similar burns but without acute kidney injury.

716 Safety and benefits of intraoperative enteral nutrition in critically ill pediatric burn patients

IntroductionBurn injuries significantly increase a patient’s metabolic demand. Adequate nutrition is essential to aid in recovery and reduce morbidity and mortality. This is important for pediatric patients, who have limited reserves and are in a period of growth, in contrast to adults. Burn patients often need multiple surgeries, with standard perioperative fasting periods leading to multiple nutritional interruptions. Continuous intraoperative feeding has been a proposed solution, but there is no current consensus on its role and safety, particularly in the pediatric population. The goal of our study was therefore to examine the safety and benefits of intraoperative nutrition in critically ill pediatric burn injury patients.MethodsA systematic review of MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar was conducted using the following terms: Feeding or enteral or nutrition or fasting and adolescent or youth or pediatric or child or teen and burn or thermal injury or fire. The primary outcome was incidence of aspiration. Secondary outcomes included patient nutritional status (caloric deficit, weight), wound healing, days spent in the intensive care unit, ventilator days, pneumonia, number of surgeries, length of hospital stay, and mortality. Pooled analyses of binary outcomes were computed.ResultsFour studies consisting of 496 patients, met inclusion criteria. All studies were level IV evidence, but had high methodological quality. The median burn total body surface area (TBSA) was 43.8% (IQR 33.4-58.8%), with a median of one-third of patients having an inhalational injury. Patients underwent a median of 4.2 surgeries (IQR 1.8-7.4). Intraoperative feeding was conducted through nasoduodenal tubes. There were no aspiration events. Pooled analysis demonstrated that there were no differences in rates of aspiration, pneumonia, or wound infection (p >0.05) between patients who were intraoperatively fed and those who were not. Those fed intraoperatively had significantly more surgeries, ventilator days, longer hospital stays, but lower mortality (p< 0.05). There was large heterogeneity in nutritional assessment methods. Intraoperatively fed patients had an average gain of 144.4 kcal/kg and 1.7 days of exclusive enteral nutrition (vs. loss of -119.1 kcal/kg and -1.4 days) and cumulative positive caloric balance of +2673kcal ±2147 (vs. loss of -7899kcal ±3123), compared to those with interrupted feeding.ConclusionsContinuous intraoperative duodenal feeding during burn surgery appears to be safe in the Pediatric burn population, with no reported episodes of aspiration. Uninterrupted feeding was also associated with weight maintenance and reduced caloric deficit. It may also have survival benefit, as continuously fed patients needed more surgeries and intensive/hospital care, but had decreased mortality.

515 Deficiencies of Rule-based Technology generated Antibiograms and Application in Patients with Prolonged Lengths of Stay

IntroductionAntibiograms are unit specific annual reports of cumulative pathogen incidence and antibiotic susceptibilities, used to guide selection of empiric antibiotic therapies. Rule-based technology (RBT) expedites data compilation, but follows “first pathogen, per patient” and limits applicability, especially for prescribing antibiotics in units with higher lengths of stay. The objective was to compare the pathogens and susceptibilities of the current automated RBT antibiogram with one manually collected through chart review with additional rules applied.MethodsThis is a single-center, retrospective cohort study utilizing chart review to assess patients admitted to the Burn Center between January 2018 and December 2019 from whom significant bacterial cultures were obtained. Demographics and burn injury characteristics were collected. Treatment data related to the infection and antibiotic usage was also collected. Specific to the culture, timing, site, pathogen, and sensitivity were collected. All cultures within the first 30 days of admission were included. The current RBT antibiogram served as the control. And new antibiogram versions were created using additional rules and compared to the RBT antibiogram.ResultsDuring the 2 years, 657 patients were admitted. Two-hundred four patients remained after applicable exclusions. Sixty-one percent were excluded due to lack of cultures. Mean age was 50.6 ± 16.5 years and 66% were male. Forty-nine percent were Caucasian. Seventy-two percent were admitted for an acute burn injury with flame as the primary mechanism and a median percent total body surface area of 10 (3, 21). Fifty-nine percent had at least one hospital acquired risk factor with over one-third having recent illicit drug use and one-third having a recent hospitalization. Of the 410 cultures included, 57% were Gram-negative and half were from wound infections. Sensitivities were significantly different when comparing the RBT to those created from significant cultures within 7 days of admission, cultures within 7 days of admission and without hospital-acquired infection risk factors (Figure 1), and those being treated with an initial or subsequent course of antibiotics. Recommended empiric antibiotic changed from double coverage to a single β-lactam with > 90% susceptibility. The susceptibilities between first and subsequent courses were dramatically different (Figure 2)ConclusionsThe antibiogram was significantly different from the RBT version after including factors, such as days since admission, presence of hospital acquired risk factors, or previous antibiotic courses. Before developing an antibiogram or interpreting the output, it is important to consider which automated criteria are utilized, especially for units with extended lengths of stay.

121 Acute Stress Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in the Outpatient Burn Population

IntroductionEarly screening and intervention for acute stress disorder (ASD), diagnosed within 30 days of the inciting trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), diagnosed after 30 days, are quality metrics in burn care. However, a considerable knowledge gap remains surrounding these psychological conditions in the outpatient burn setting. In this study, we assessed the effectiveness of ASD and PTSD screening at an academic burn center and identified risk factors for their development.MethodsA retrospective cohort study of all patients treated at our ABA-verified burn center’s outpatient clinic, between July 2016 and August 2019, was undertaken. Adult patients with flame, flash, contact, or scald burns who were initially evaluated in the outpatient setting were included. ASD and PTSD were assessed using validated screening tools (ASDS and PCL-5, respectively). ASD/PTSD screening rate, screening tool appropriateness, and subsequent interventions were tracked, along with age, gender, % total body surface area (TBSA) burned, burn mechanism, operative intervention, psychiatric history, substance abuse history, and co-morbidities. Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for univariate analysis of categorical and continuous variables, respectively.ResultsThe analysis included 2494 clinic encounters and 1147 unique patients. Patients were screened for ASD or PTSD at 94.8% of encounters. Median age was 36 years (range of 18 to 94 years), 57.6% of patients were male (n=661), and median TBSA burned was 1% (range of 0.1 to 12%). Among all screens, the appropriate screening tool was applied 88.5% of the time. For all encounters, positive screening rates for ASD and PTSD were 13.2% (n=286) and 14.6% (n=48), respectively. Risk factors for positive ASD screens included a history of substance abuse (OR 1.9, p=0.03) and history of psychiatric illness (OR 2.6, p=0.002). Similarly, risk factors for positive PTSD screens included a prior positive ASD screen (OR 9.5, p=0.001), a history of substance abuse (OR 2.1, p=0.04), and a history of psychiatric illness (OR 3.3, p=0.002). Age, gender, burn mechanism, TBSA burned, and need for operative intervention did not predict positive screens. The intervention rate for positive PTSD screens by referral, counseling, or medication, was only 7.9%.ConclusionsDemographics and burn severity do not appear to predict development of ASD or PTSD in the outpatient burn population. In contrast, a history of substance abuse or psychiatric illness warrant further attention. Despite consistent use of validated screening tools, these conditions remain under-treated in the outpatient setting, indicating a need for resource-expansion.

Comparison of Work- and Nonwork-Related Lower Extremity Burn Injuries: A Retrospective Analysis.

Lower extremity burn injuries are among the most affected anatomical regions in hospitalized burn patients. Our objective was to compare burn patients with work-related isolated lower extremity burn injuries (w-ILEBI) and patients with nonwork-related isolated lower extremity burn injuries (nw-ILEBI). Sixty-four (15.7%) of 407 patients (16-92 years) were in the w-ILEBI cohort. The most extensive burn wounds were among patients in the fire-flame group with a median total body surface area percent (%TBSA) of 27.0 (interquartile range = 11.0%-45.0%). While 50 (76.9%) patients in the electrical group had full-thickness burns, 99 (60%) of the cases in the scald group had superficial partial-thickness burns. Blood and wound sample cultures were positive in 42 (29.4%) patients in the fire-flame group. Approximately one-third of patients in the fire-flame/electrical group required escharotomy/fasciotomy procedures, only one (0.6%) case in the scald group, and none in the chemical/contact groups. Thirty-three (51%) of the patients in the electrical group underwent skin grafting, but 14 (21.5%) required amputations. The highest mortality was detected in 27 (18.9%) patients in the fire-flame group. This study revealed several differences in clinical characteristics of isolated lower extremity burn injuries (ILEBI): burn mechanism and depth, total body surface area percent (%TBSA), infection, surgery requirements, laterality, and mortality. Within the scope of occupational health and safety measures, protective clothing and increased workplace and safety training for employers/employees should be implemented.

Assessment and Management of Pain in Patients Sustaining Burns at Emergency Department Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya: A Descriptive Study

Background: Poorly managed burn pain affects the victim by delayed healing, psychological disturbances, and chronic pain. Burn injuries are the fourth leading cause of injuries worldwide. The incidence of thermal burns in Kenya is 3%. Pain assessment and control are integral parts of management that a burn victim should be offered. We lack data on pain management in burn patients during setup. Methods: A descriptive study was carried out at the emergency department (ED) of Kenyatta National Hospital. We enrolled patients who sustained thermal burns until a sample 138 patients was reached. Enrollment of patients was done from February to August 2015. The pain level was assessed using a visual analogue scale, and the Lund and Browder chart was used to record the depth and extent of the burn. Data on the type of analgesia prescribed and its route of administration was collected. Data was analyzed using STATA v.11. Results: The median age of the sample was 28 years with a male to female ratio 1.8:1. The majority of the victims (38%) sustained flame burns. The median total body surface area was 19.5%. Pain assessment was done in 2% with a visual analogue scale and face pain recognition scale. Mean Visual Analogue score was 7. Analgesia was offered to 96% of participants, and it was unimodal in the majority, 76.7%, and the preferred drug of choice was morphine. The majority of all burn patients had sustained moderate to major burns. The tools used to assess pain in this hospital were Face Pain Recognition Scale and Visual Analogue Scale; however, pain assessment was done on a meagre 2% of the sample. Conclusions: A minority of the patients had any sort of pain assessment done at the emergency department. As a result, burn pain was inappropriately managed. There is a need to improve the assessment of burn pain and improve its management by encouraging training of ED burn care providers by burn surgeons and pain therapists.

A profile of adult patients with major burns admitted to a Level 1 Trauma Centre and their functional outcomes at discharge: A retrospective review.

BackgroundPatients with major burns suffer with pain, which impacts their physical function during hospitalisation.ObjectivesTo describe the demographics, burn characteristics, clinical course, physical function, complications developed after major burns and to establish predictors of non-independent physical function at hospital discharge.MethodRecords of all consecutive adult burn admissions to a Level 1 Trauma Centre between 2015 and 2017 were screened retrospectively against our study criteria, using the Trauma Bank Data Registry. Anonymised data from included records were captured on specifically designed data extraction forms. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise findings. A regression analysis was undertaken to establish predictors of non-independent function at discharge.ResultsMales represented 87.7% (n = 64) of included records (n = 73). Median age was 38 (interquartile range [IQR]: 22). Thermal burns were most reported (n = 47, 64.4%), followed by median total body surface area (TBSA) 31% and head and arms were most affected (60.3% and 71.2%). Injury severity was high with median intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS) of 17 (IQR: 34) and hospital LOS 44 (IQR: 31) days. Wound debridement was mostly performed (n = 27, 36.9%) with limb oedema as a common complication (n = 15, 21.7%). Muscle strength and functional performance improved throughout LOS. None of the variables identified were predictors of non-independent function at hospital discharge.ConclusionAdults with major burns were predominantly male, in mid-life and sustained thermal injury with a high injury severity. Decreased range of motion (ROM) of affected areas, ‘fair’ muscle strength and independent function were recorded for most patients at hospital discharge.Clinical implicationsThese findings contribute to the limited body of evidence on the profile, clinical course and outcomes of South African adult burn patients.

Impact of inhalation injury on outcomes in critically ill burns patients: 12-year experience at a regional burns centre

IntroductionBurns inhalation injury increases the attributable mortality of burns related trauma. However, diagnostic uncertainties around bronchoscopically graded severity, and its effect on outcomes, remain. This study evaluated the impact of different bronchoscopic burns inhalation injury grades on outcomes. MethodsA single-centre cohort study of all patients admitted to the London Burns centre intensive care unit (BICU) over 12 years. Demographic data, burn and burns inhalation injury characteristics, and ICU-related parameters were collected retrospectively. The primary outcome was mortality. Secondary outcomes were hospital and ICU lengths of stay. The impact of pneumonia was determined. Univariate and multivariable Cox’s proportional hazards regression analyses informed factors predicting mortality. ResultsBurns inhalation injury was diagnosed in 84 of 231 (36%) critically ill burns patients; 20 mild (grade 1), 41 severe (grades 2/3) and 23 unclassified bronchoscopically. Median (IQR) total body surface area burned (TBSA) was 20% (10−40). Mortality was significantly higher in patients with burns inhalation injury vs those without burns inhalation injury (38/84 [45%] vs 35/147 [24%], p < 0.001). Patients with pneumonia had a higher mortality than those without (34/125 [27%] vs 8/71 [11%], p = 0.009). In multivariable analysis, severe burns inhalation injury significantly increased mortality (adjusted HR=2.14, 95%CI: 1.12–4.09, p = 0.022), compared with mild injury (adjusted HR=0.58, 95% CI: 0.18–1.86, p = 0.363). Facial burns (adjusted HR=3.13, 95%CI: 1.69–5.79, p < 0.001), higher TBSA (adjusted HR=1.05, 95%CI: 1.04–1.06, p < 0.001) and older age (adjusted HR=1.04, 95%CI: 1.02–1.07, p < 0.001) also independently predicted mortality, though pneumonia did not. ConclusionsSevere burns inhalation injury is a significant risk factor for mortality in critically ill burns patients. However, pneumonia did not increase mortality from burns inhalation injury. This work confirms prior implications of bronchoscopically graded burns inhalation injury. Further study is suggested, through registries, into the diagnostic accuracy and reliability of bronchoscopy in burns related lung injury.