Citation

Rao K, Ali SN, Moiemen NS. Burns 2006; 32(7): 802-805.

Affiliation

Department of Plastic Surgery and Burns, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust, Selly Oak Hospital, Raddlebarn Road, Birmingham B29 6JD, United Kingdom.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.burns.2006.03.024

PMID

16997476

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This retrospective study, analyses etiology and factors affecting the outcome of burns in patients over 65 years of age. METHODS: Sixty-three consecutive patients, over 65 years of age, were admitted to a Burns Unit over a period of 3 years. Retrospective data was analyzed, taking into account aetiology, burn thickness and area, co-morbid factors. Also, surgery as a factor-affecting outcome was examined. RESULTS: There was a significant difference of total body surface area burn (TBSA), Abbreviated Burn Severity Index (ABSI), Baux score and the number of pre-existing co-morbid factors between survivors and non-survivors. Age and surgery were not significant to the outcome. Patients undergoing surgery had increased hospital stay without any difference in mortality. The timing of surgery did not have any impact on hospital stay or survival. CONCLUSION: This study shows a positive correlation between the number of co-morbid conditions and mortality. Early surgery after careful patient selection does not have any negative impact on patient survival.

Language: en