The effect of foot reflexology massage on burn-specific pain anxiety and sleep quality and quantity of patients hospitalized in the burn intensive care unit (ICU)

BackgroundBurn-specific pain anxiety and sleep disorders are common factors in burned patients that affect wound healing process, as well as the severity of burn pain. This study aimed to investigate the effect of foot reflexology massage on burn-specific pain anxiety and sleep condition of patients hospitalized in the burn ICU.MethodIn this randomized controlled clinical trial, 52 patients were assigned by permuted block randomization 1:1 to the intervention (n = 26) and control (n = 26) groups. The intervention group received 20 min of foot reflexology massage during 3 days on their third, fourth and fifth days of hospitalization and 15 min before changing wound dressings. Patients in the control group merely received routine care. The Burn-Specific Pain Anxiety Scale (BSPAS) was completed for three consecutive days before and after changing wound dressings, and St. Mary's Hospital Sleep Questionnaire (SMHSQ) was filled out for four consecutive days before changing wound dressings for patients in both groups. The data were analyzed by IBM SPSS 16 software, Chicago, independent t, Chi-square, Friedman, Mann–Whitney and Wilcoxon tests.FindingsWe found no significant difference between pain-anxiety in the two groups before the intervention. The trend of different days in each groups were compared with Friedman test and showed that pain anxiety (p < 0.001), sleep latency (p < 0.001), duration of the last day's sleep (p < 0.001) and satisfaction of the last night sleep (p < 0.001) had a significant difference. In addition, Mann–Whitney test results showed that there were significant differences between the two groups at different times in terms of the above variables (p < 0.05). The effect size was = 0.82 for pain anxiety between group after the intervention.ConclusionBased on the results, foot reflexology massage can effectively reduce pain anxiety levels and improve sleep quality and quantity of patients with burn injuries; therefore, this non- pharmacological therapeutic method is recommended to be used in the burn ICUs. (Clinical trial’s registration code: IRCT20110906007494N27)     

Treadmill versus overground gait training in patients with lower limb burn injury: A matched control study

IntroductionGait impairment is commonly seen in patients with a lower limb burn injury (LLBI). Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of two different gait training modes on gait symmetry, functional mobility and kinesiophobia in patients with LLBI.MethodsThis matched control study was conducted between January 2017 and August 2018. Patients with LLBI (n = 28) were allocated to 2 different groups by matching according to burn localization, age, and gender. Group 1 (overground group: n = 14) received overground gait training in addition to standard burn rehabilitation, and Group 2 (treadmill group: n = 14) received treadmill gait training in addition to standard burn rehabilitation. The rehabilitation program and gait training were started when the patient was admitted to the hospital and ended on discharge. These physical therapy interventions were performed 5 days per week. The gait training intensity, including walking speed and duration, was determined according to patient tolerance. Gait parameters, functional mobility, kinesiophobia and pain values were evaluated with GAITRite, the timed up-and-go test (TUG), Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale and Visual Analogue Scale, respectively. These evaluations were made twice; on admission and immediately prior to discharge. Gait symmetry was calculated using the Symmetry Index.ResultsThe baseline characteristics of the groups and initial outcome values were similar. In the comparison of the differences between the overground and treadmill groups, the change in kinesiophobia and TUG values were significantly higher in the treadmill group (p = 0.01, p = 0.02, respectively). The intragroup comparisons showed significant differences in SI in respect of step length (p = 0.004), swing (p = 0.006), stance (p = 0.008) and velocity (p = 0.001), cadence (p = 0.001), TUG (p = 0.001), kinesiophobia (p = 0.001) and pain (p = 0.001) in the overground group. Statistically significant differences were determined in step length (p = 0.01), swing (p = 0.01), stance (p = 0.02) and velocity (p = 0.001), cadence (p = 0.001), TUG (p = 0.001), kinesiophobia (p = 0.001) and pain (p = 0.001) in the treadmill group, when pre and post-training values were compared.ConclusionsThe results of this study have shown that treadmill gait training was more effective in the improvement of functional mobility and reduction in kinesiophobia levels of patients with LLBI compared to overground gait training. Both overground and treadmill gait training also provide greater improvements in the velocity and cadence, and gait symmetry for step length, swing and stance in patients with LLBI.Clinical trial registration numberNCT03217526.     

Comparison of prognostic models for burn patients: A retrospective nationwide registry study

BackgroundPrognostic burn index (PBI) is a unique model utilized to predict mortality of burn patients in Japan. In contrast, other prediction models are rarely used in Japan, and their accuracy and predictive value are unknown. The present study aimed to compare commonly used burn prediction models and determine the appropriate model for mortality prediction in Japanese burn patients.MethodsJapanese burn patients registered in the nationwide burn registry of Japanese Society for Burn Injury between April 1, 2011 and March 31, 2019 were reviewed retrospectively. The prognostic performance of PBI was compared with Baux score, revised Baux score, abbreviated burn severity index (ABSI), Ryan score and Belgian outcome in burn injury score (BOBI). The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality.ResultsThe study included 7911 acute burn patients. The overall mortality rate was 10.7%, the median age was 52 (interquartile range, 26–72) years, and the median % total body surface area was 7% (interquartile range, 3%–17%). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for PBI, Baux score, ABSI, revised Baux score, Ryan score, and BOBI were 0.940 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.931–0.948), 0.943 (95% CI: 0.934–0.951; p = 0.002), 0.945 (95% CI: 0.937–0.953; p = 0.058), 0.946 (95% CI: 0.937–0.953; p = 0.002), 0.859 (95% CI: 0.846–0.870; p < 0.001), and 0.896 (95% CI: 0.885–0.905; p < 0.001), respectively.ConclusionAlthough the performance of PBI was good, it was not superior to the Baux score, revised Baux score, and ABSI. These three scores have a high prognostic accuracy. Hence, they are considered as alternative burn prognostic scores in Japan. The Baux score was an optimal prognostic model for patients with burns in Japan.     

Health related quality of life in cystic fibrosis: To work or not to work?

BackgroundThe present study investigated whether patients with CF who are studying or working report a better HRQoL in comparison to non-working/studying patients.Methods57 adult CF patients completed the Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire—Revised, a CF-specific measure of HRQoL. Medical condition was quantified in terms of FEV1 % predicted, BMI, Pseudomonas aer. status, pancreatic status (PS), having an indwelling catheter device (PAC), CF Related Diabetes Mellitus and nutritional status.ResultsMean age was 26.7 years (SD 8.1), mean FEV1 % predicted was 65.09 (SD 22.18), mean BMI was 21.23 (SD 3.45). FEV1 % predicted was related to HRQoL domains Physical Functioning and General Health (r = 0.27 and 0.38 respectively, p < 0.05). A higher BMI was associated with better scores on Eating Disturbances (= fewer problems; r = 0.44, p < 0.01) and a better perception of Weight (r = 0.43, p < 0.01) and Body Image (r = 0.28, p < 0.05). Analysis of variance showed that specific domains of HRQoL were related to diabetes (Weight), taking caloric supplements (Body Image and Weight) and/or PAC (Physical Functioning, Treatment Burden, Role, Weight). Twenty-four patients worked/studied, these patients had a higher FEV1, and fewer had Pseudomonas aer. or a PAC or took high caloric supplements, compared to non-working/studying patients. After controlling for medical parameters, patients who were working/studying scored higher than non-working/studying patients on Physical Functioning, Role Functioning and Social Functioning.ConclusionsCF patients' HRQoL is related to medical status. The non-working/studying CF patients in this sample had greater disease severity and reported a lower quality of life than their working/studying peers, even after controlling for relevant medical parameters. The decision to stop work/study for CF patients is difficult and affects patients' personal, social and financial well-being.     

Intentional injury against children in Sub-Saharan Africa: A tertiary trauma centre experience

BackgroundIntentional injuries are the result of violence. This is an important public health issue, particularly in children, and is an unaddressed problem in sub-Saharan Africa. This study sought to describe the characteristics of intentional injury, particularly physical abuse, in children presenting to our tertiary trauma centre in Lilongwe, Malawi and how they compare to children with unintentional injuries.MethodsA retrospective analysis of children (<18 years old) with traumatic injuries presenting to Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) in Lilongwe, Malawi from 2009 to 2013 was performed. Children with intentional and unintentional injuries were compared with bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression modelling.Results67,672 patients with traumatic injuries presented to KCH of which 24,365 were children. 1976 (8.1%) patients presented with intentional injury. Intentional injury patients had a higher mean age (11.1 ± 5.0 vs. 7.1 ± 4.6, p < 0.001), a greater male preponderance (72.5 vs. 63.6%, p < 0.001), were more often injured at night (38.3 vs. 20.7%, p < 0.001), and alcohol was more often involved (7.8 vs. 1.0%, p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression modelling showed that increasing age, male gender, and nighttime or urban setting for injury were associated with increased odds of intentional injury. Soft tissue injuries were more common in intentional injury patients (80.5 vs. 45.4%, p < 0.001) and fist punches were the most common weapon (25.6%). Most patients were discharged in both groups (89.2 vs 80.9%, p < 0.001) and overall mortality was lower for intentional injury patients (0.9 vs. 1.2%, p = 0.001). Head injury was the most common cause of death (43.8 vs. 32.2%, p < 0.001) in both groups.ConclusionsSub-Saharan African tertiary hospitals are uniquely positioned to play a pivotal role in the identification, clinical management, and alleviation of intentional injuries to children by facilitating access to social services and through prevention efforts.     

Pediatric burn-trauma patients have increased length of stay compared to trauma-only patients: A propensity matched analysis

BackgroundTrauma is the leading cause of mortality in children. Burn injury involves intensive resources, especially in pediatric patients. We hypothesized that among pediatric trauma patients, combined burn-trauma (BT) patients have increased length of stay (LOS) and mortality compared to trauma-only (T) patients.MethodsThe Pediatric Trauma Quality Improvement Program (2014–2016) was queried and BT patients were 1:2 propensity-score-matched to T patients based on age, gender, hypotension on admission, injury type and severity.Results93 BT patients were matched to 186 T patients. There were no differences in matched characteristics. BT patients had a longer median LOS (4 vs 2 days, p < 0.001) with no difference in mortality (1.1% vs 1.1%, p = 1.00), intensive care unit (ICU) LOS (3 vs 3 days, p = 0.55), or complications including decubitus ulcer (0% vs 1.1%, p = 0.32), deep vein thrombosis (0% vs 0.5%, p = 0.48), extremity compartment syndrome (1.1% vs 0%, p = 0.16), and urinary tract infection (1.1% vs 1.1%, p = 1.00).ConclusionPediatric BT patients had twice the LOS compared to a matched group of pediatric T patients. There was no difference between the cohorts in ICU LOS, complications or mortality rate. When evaluating risk-stratified quality metrics such as LOS, concomitant burn injury should be incorporated.     

Lethal triad in severe burns

IntroductionHypothermia, acidaemia and coagulopathy in trauma is associated with significant mortality. This study aimed to identify the incidence of the lethal triad in major burns, and describe demographics and outcomes.MethodsPatients admitted during a 71 month period with a total body surface area burn (TBSA) ≥ 30% were identified. A structured review of a prospective database was conducted. The lethal triad was defined as a combination of coagulopathy (International normalised ratio > 1.2), hypothermia (temperature ≤ 35.5 °C) and acidaemia (pH ≤ 7.25).ResultsFifteen of 117 patients fulfilled the criteria for the lethal triad on admission. Lethal triad patients had a higher median (IQR) abbreviated burn severity index (ABSI) (12 (9–13) vs. 8.5 (6–10), p = 0.001), mean (SD) TBSA burn (59.2% (18.7) vs. 47.9% (18.1), p = 0.027), mean (SD) age (46 (22.6) vs. 33 (28.3) years, p = 0.033), and had a higher incidence of inhalational injury (p < 0.0001) and full-thickness burns (p = 0.021). Both groups received similar volumes of fluid (p > 0.05).The lethal triad was associated with increased mortality (66.7% vs. 13.7%, p < 0.0001). With logistic regression analysis and adjustment for ABSI, the lethal triad was not shown to be a predictor of mortality (p > 0.05).ConclusionBurn patients with the lethal triad have a high mortality rate which reflects the severity of the injury sustained.     

The impact of electrical injuries on long-term outcomes: A Burn Model System National Database study

IntroductionElectrical injuries exhibit significant acute and long-term sequelae. Amputation and neurological deficits are common in electrical injury survivors. There is a paucity of information on the long-term outcomes of this population. Therefore, this study examines the long-term outcomes of electrical injuries by comparing them to fire/flame injuries.MethodsData from the Burn Model System National Database collected between 1996 and 2015 was examined. Demographic and clinical characteristics for adult burn survivors with electrical and fire/flame injuries were compared. Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), Short Form-12 Physical Composite Score (SF-12 PCS), Short Form-12 Mental Composite Score (SF-12 MCS), and employment status were examined at 24 months post-injury. Linear and logistic regression models were used to assess differences in outcome measures between groups, controlling for demographic and clinical variables.ResultsA total of 1147 adult burn survivors (111 with electrical injuries; 1036 with fire/flame injuries) were included in this study. Persons with electrical injuries were more likely to be male and injured at work (p < 0.001). SF-12 PCS scores were significantly worse for survivors with electrical injuries at 24 months post-injury than survivors with fire/flame injuries (p < 0.01). Those with electrical injuries were nearly half as likely to be employed at 24 months post-injury than those with fire/flame injuries (p = 0.002). There were no significant differences in SWLS and SF-12 MCS between groups.ConclusionsAdult survivors with electrical injuries reported worse physical health and were less likely to be employed at 24 months post-injury compared to survivors with fire/flame injuries. A more detailed understanding of return to work barriers and work accommodations is merited for the electrical injury population. Furthermore, the results of this study should inform future resource allocation for the physical health and employment needs of this population.     

The relationship between kinesiophobia and health-related quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A controlled cross-sectional study

ObjectivesTo evaluate the kinesiophobia and kinesiophobia-related factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and provide a better perspective on the relationship between kinesiophobia and patients’ health-related quality of life (HRQoL).MethodsA total of 88 patients (67 females, 21 males) with RA and 93 healthy volunteers (67 females, 26 males) were included in the study between March 2020 and July 2020. Kinesiophobia was evaluated using the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK) and HRQoL was evaluated using the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). The Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) (Short Form) were completed by all participants.ResultsThe median age was 52.0 (IQR, 45.0-58.0) years in the RA group and 50.0 (IQR, 41.5-56.0) years in the control group. Age and sex were not significantly different between the groups. The median TSK score was 45.0 (IQR, 39.0-49.75) in the RA group, 39.0 (IQR, 37.0-43.0) in the control group (P < 0.001). The median FSS, BDI, and HAQ-DI scores were higher and the median HRQoL domains were lower in the RA group than in the control group (P < 0.05). Multivariate linear regression analysis including age, sex, education level, body mass index (BMI), morning stiffness duration, Disease Activity Score in 28 joints, FSS, BDI, visual analog scale and IPAQ scores variables showed that FSS scores (B = 1.07, P < 0.05), BDI scores (B = 0.24, P < 0.05), and BMI (B = 0.22, P < 0.05) were independent variables for kinesiophobia in patients with RA (R² = 0.32). TSK was a predictive variable for HAQ-DI (B = 0.03, P < 0.001), the physical functioning domain of the HRQoL (B = -1.18, P < 0.001), the bodily pain domain of the HRQoL (B = -0.78, P < 0.05), respectively.ConclusionPhysicians should have awareness of kinesiophobia in patients with RA. Educating patients about kinesiophobia, developing strategies for avoiding kinesiophobia, and specific treatment strategies with a multidisciplinary approach may improve HRQoL and disability.     

The role of psychological flexibility in appearance anxiety in people who have experienced a visible burn injury

BackgroundIndividuals with visible differences can experience appearance anxiety that is distressing and disruptive to daily functioning. Understanding psychological factors that maintain appearance anxiety related to scarring is important in developing theoretical understanding of adjustment to injury, and in identifying targets for psychological therapies. This study aimed to investigate whether psychological flexibility, a key element underpinning acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), was associated with appearance anxiety. It was hypothesised that reduced psychological flexibility (lower acceptance, cognitive defusion, mindfulness, and committed action) would be related to increased appearance anxiety. The role of psychological flexibility in the maintenance of appearance anxiety was investigated using a cross-sectional quantitative questionnaire study.MethodSeventy-eight burns patients (47 female, 31 male; M age = 45.2 years) completed the Derriford Appearance Scale (DAS-24), the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (AAQ-II), the Cognitive Fusion Questionnaire (CFQ), the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), and the Committed Action Questionnaire (CAQ-8).ResultsAs hypothesised, increased appearance anxiety was related to reduced acceptance (r_s(76) = 0.80, p < 0.001, one-tailed) and cognitive defusion (r_s(76) = 0.76, p < 0.001). Reduced levels of mindfully describing (r(72) = −0.39, p < 0.001), acting with awareness (r(72) = −0.57, p < 0.001), non-judging (r(72) = −0.61, p < 0.001) and non-reactivity (r(72) = −0.28, p < 0.01) as well as reduced committed action (r(72) = −0.57, p < 0.001) were also related to increased appearance anxiety.ConclusionsIndividuals experiencing appearance anxiety associated with a burn injury may struggle with accepting difficult emotions, stepping back from distressing thoughts, being mindful and engaging in valued action. These findings suggest that ACT may be useful in treating appearance related anxiety and concerns associated with conditions causing a visible difference.     

De Ritis ratio as a predictor of 1-year mortality after burn surgery

BackgroundBurn is an overwhelming injury. The De Ritis ratio, defined as aspartate aminotransferase to alanine aminotransferase ratio, can be used to predict poor outcomes. We evaluated the risk factors, including the De Ritis ratio, associated with 1-year mortality after burn surgery.MethodsPatients who underwent burn surgery from 2009 to 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the risk factors for 1-year mortality after burn surgery. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis of the De Ritis ratio was performed to predict postoperative 1-year mortality. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was also conducted. Other postoperative outcomes, such as durations of hospital and intensive care unit stays, acute kidney injury, and major adverse cardiac events, were evaluated.ResultsOne-year mortality after burn surgery occurred in 247 (19.9%) of 1244 patients. The risk factors for 1-year mortality after burn surgery were the De Ritis ratio, age, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status, diabetes mellitus, total body surface area burned, inhalation injury, serum creatinine level, and serum albumin level. The area under the ROC curve for the De Ritis ratio was 0.716 (optimal cutoff = 1.9). The 1-year mortality rate after burn surgery was significantly higher in patients with a De Ritis ratio >1.9 than in those with a De Ritis ratio ≤1.9 (35.8% vs. 11.8%, P < 0.001). The survival rate was significantly higher in patients with a De Ritis ratio ≤1.9 than in those with a De Ritis ratio >1.9 (log-rank test, P < 0.001). Intensive care unit stay, acute kidney injury, and major adverse cardiac events were significantly higher in patients with a De Ritis ratio >1.9 than in those with a De Ritis ratio ≤1.9 (P = 0.006, P < 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively).ConclusionsThe preoperative De Ritis ratio was a risk factor for 1-year mortality after burn surgery. The De Ritis ratio >1.9 was significantly associated with an increased 1-year mortality after burn surgery. These findings emphasized the importance of identifying burn patients with an increased De Ritis ratio to reduce the mortality after burn surgery.     

Single centre experience of combat-related vascular injury in victims of Syrian conflict: Retrospective evaluation of risk factors associated with amputation

ObjectiveTo elucidate the risk factors associated with amputation in cases with combat-related vascular injury (CRVI).Material and methodsThis retrospective study included 90 cases with CRVI treated between May 2011 and July 2013. The patients were divided into group I (n = 69), in which the limb was salvaged and group II (n = 21), in which the patients received amputation.ResultsThe overall and the secondary amputation rates were 23% and 18%, respectively. There were no amputations with the MESS of nine or less, increasing proportions of amputations at 10 and 11, with a level of 12 leading to 100% amputation rate. The mortality rate was 2%. Among the 52 (58%) cases with the mangled extremity severity score (MESS) ≥ 7, the limb salvage rate was 60%. The patients in group II were more likely to have a combined artery and vein injury (p = 0.042). They were also more likely to be injured as a result of an explosion (p = 0.004). Along with the MESS (p < 0.001), the duration of ischemia (DoI) (p < 0.001) were higher in group II. The rate of bony fracture (p < 0.001) and wound infection (p = 0.011) were higher in group II. For the overall amputation, the odds ratio of the bony fracture (OR: 61.39, p = 0.011), nerve injury (OR: 136.23, p = 0.004), DoI (OR: 2.03, p = 0.003), vascular ligation (OR: 8.65, p = 0.040) and explosive device injury (OR: 10.8, p = 0.041) were significant. Although the DoI (p < 0.001) and the MESS (p = 0.004) were higher in whom a temporary vascular shunt (TVS) was applied, the utilisation of a TVS did not influence the amputation rate (p = 1.0).ConclusionsThe DoI and the variables indicating the extent of tissue disruption were the major determinants of amputation. While statistically non-significant, the benefit of the application of a TVS is non-negligible. MESS is a valid scoring system but should not be the sole foundation for deciding on amputation. Extremities which were doomed to amputation with the MESS >7 seem to benefit from revascularisation with initiation of reperfusion at once. The validity of MESS merits further investigation with regard to the determination of a new cut-off value under ever developing medical management strategies.     

A remarkable point for evaluating the severity of burns: Thiol–disulfide profile

AimThe objective of this study was to examine the thiol–disulfide profile tests in patients suffering from burn injuries.MethodsThis case–control study comprised 48 patients with thermal burn injuries and 61 healthy individuals. Thiol–disulfide tests were conducted in both groups, and also, the changes of thiol–disulfide parameters were analyzed at zero time and on days 3, 7, 15, and 30 of the admission in patients with burn injuries.ResultsThe patients had significantly decreased native and total thiol levels and native thiol/total thiol ratios, and significantly increased disulfide/native thiol and disulfide/total thiol ratios compared to control individuals (p < 0.001 for all). The variations of native thiol levels, total thiol levels, and disulfide/native thiol ratios were significantly different over time in patients with burn injuries (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.05, respectively). There were strong associations with the clinical parameters and thiol–disulfide profile tests (p < 0.05 for all).ConclusionThere was a metabolic disturbance of the thiol–disulfide system among patients with burn injuries. The courses of thiol–disulfide variables in time overlapped with the burn mechanism. Strong associations provide that thiol–disulfide homeostasis might be a notable key for evaluating the severity of burns and predicting the survival.     

Early protein C activation is reflective of burn injury severity and plays a critical role in inflammatory burden and patient outcomes

BackgroundNavigating the complexities of a severe burn injury is a challenging endeavour where the natural course of some patients can be difficult to predict. Straddling both the coagulation and inflammatory cascades that feature strongly in the burns systemic pathophysiology, we propose the pleiotropic protein C (PC) system may produce a viable biomarker to assist traditional evaluation methods for diagnostic and prognostic purposes.MethodsWe enrolled 86 patients in a prospective observational cohort study. Over three weeks, serial blood samples were taken and measured for PC, activated (A)PC, their receptor endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR), and a panel of inflammatory cytokines including C-reactive protein (CRP), tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-17. Their temporal trends were analysed alongside clinical factors including burn size, burn depth, presence of inhalational injury, and a composite outcome of requiring increased support.Results(i) APC increased from a nadir on Day 3 (2.3 ± 2.1 ng/mL vs 4.1 ± 2.5 ng/mL by Day 18, p < 0.0005), only becoming appropriately correlated to PC from Day 6 onwards (r = 0.412–0.721, p < 0.05 for all Days 6–21). (ii) This early disturbance in the PC system was amplified in the more severe burns (≥30% total body surface area, predominantly full thickness, or with inhalational injury), which were characterised by a marked fall in PC activation (approximated by APC/PC ratio) and APC levels during Days 0–3 with low unchanged PC levels. Critically low levels of this cytoprotective agent was associated with greater inflammatory burden, as reflected by significantly elevated CRP, IL-6, and IL-8 levels in the more severe compared to less severe burns, and by negative correlations between both PC and APC with most inflammatory cytokines. (iii) Alongside clinical markers of severity at admission (burn size, burn depth, and presence of inhalational injury), only Day 0 APC/PC ratio (OR 1.048 (1.014–1.083), p = 0.006), APC (OR 1.364 (1.032–1.803), p = 0.029), PC (OR 0.899 (0.849–0.953), p < 0.0005), and not any inflammatory cytokines were predictive markers of requiring increased support. Uniquely, decreased Day 0 PC was further individually associated with each increased total length of stay, ICU length of stay, intravenous fluid resuscitation, and total surgeries, as well as possibly mortality.ConclusionAn early functional depletion of the cytoprotective PC system provides a physiological link between severe burns and the cytokine storm, likely contributing to worse outcomes. Our findings on the changes in APC, PC and PC activation during this pathological state support APC and PC as early diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, and provides a basis for their therapeutic potential in severe burn injuries.     

Repetitive extracorporeal shock wave applications are superior in inducing angiogenesis after full thickness burn compared to single application

ObjectiveBurn wounds remain a challenge due to subsequent wound infection and septicemia, which can be prevented by acceleration of wound healing. The aim of the study was to analyze microcirculation and leukocyte endothelium interaction with particular focus on angiogenesis after full-thickness burn using three different repetitions of low energy shock waves.MethodsFull-thickness burns were inflicted to the ears of hairless mice (n = 44; area: 1.6 ± 0.05 mm² (mean ± SEM)). Mice were randomized into four groups: the control group received a burn injury but no shock waves; group A received ESWA (0.03 mJ/mm²) on day one after burn injury; group B received shock waves on day one and day three after burn injury; group C ESWA on day one, three and seven after burn injury. Intravital fluorescent microscopy was used to assess microcirculatory parameters, angiogenesis and leukocyte interaction. Values were obtained before burn (baseline value) immediately after and on days 1, 3, 7 and 12 after burn.ResultsShock-wave treated groups showed significantly accelerated angiogenesis compared to the control group. The non-perfused area (NPA) is regarded as a parameter for angiogenesis and showed the following data on day 12 2.7 ± 0.4% (group A, p = 0.001), 1.4 ± 0.5% (group B, p < 0.001), 1.0 ± 0.3% (group C, p < 0.001), 6.1 ± 0.9% (control group). Edema formation is positively correlated with the number of shock wave applications: day 12: group A: 173.2 ± 9.8%, group B: 184.2 ± 6.6%, group C: 201.1 ± 6.9%, p = 0.009 vs. control: 162.3 ± 8.7% (all data: mean ± SEM).ConclusionAccording to our data shock waves positively impact the wound healing process following burn injury. Angiogenesis showed significantly improved activity after shock wave application. In all three treatment groups angiogenesis was higher compared to the control group. Within the ESWA groups, double applications showed better results than single application and three applications showed better results than single or double applications.     

Good functional outcome but not regained health related quality of life in the majority of 20–69 years old patients with femoral neck fracture treated with internal fixation: A prospective 2-year follow-up study of 182 patients

Background and purposeProspective studies on patient related outcome in patients <70 years with a femoral neck fracture (FNF) are few. We aimed to investigate functional outcome and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in 20–69 years old patients with a FNF treated with internal fixation.Patients and methods182 patients, 20–69 years with a FNF treated with internal fixation were prospectively included in a multicenter study. Follow up included radiographic and clinical examination at 4, 12 and 24 months. Collected data were hip function using Harris Hip Score (HHS), HRQoL (EQ-5D and SF-36), fracture healing and re-operations.ResultsAt 24 months, HHS was good or excellent in 73% of the patients with a displaced fracture and 85% of the patients with a non-displaced fracture (p = 0.15). Of the patients with displaced fracture (n = 120), 23% had a non-union (NU) and 15% had an avascular necrosis (AVN) with a 28% re-operation rate. None of the patients with non-displaced fracture (n = 50) had an NU, 12% had a radiographic AVN and 8% needed a re-operation. The mean EQ-5D_index in patients with displaced fracture decreased from 0.81 to 0.59 at 4 months, 0.63 at 12 months and 0.65 at 24 months (p < 0.001). The corresponding values for patients with non-displaced fracture were 0.88, 0.69, 0.75 and 0.74 respectively (p < 0.001). The mean SF-total score in patients with displaced fracture decreased from 76 to 55 at 4 months, 63 at 12 months and 65 at 24 months (p < 0.001). The corresponding values for patients with non-displaced fracture were 80, 67, 74 and 76 respectively (p < 0.001).InterpretationTwo thirds of the patients with displaced femoral neck fracture healed after one operation and three quarters reported good or excellent functional outcome at 24 months. However, they did not regain their pre-fracture level of HRQoL.     

Variation in acute fluid resuscitation among pediatric burn centers

BackgroundAccurate resuscitation of pediatric patients with large thermal injury is critical to achieving optimal outcomes. The goal of this project was to describe the degree of variability in resuscitation guidelines among pediatric burn centers and the impact on fluid estimates.MethodsFive pediatric burn centers in the Pediatric Injury Quality Improvement Collaborative (PIQIC) contributed data from patients with ≥15% total body surface area (TBSA) burns treated from 2014 to 2018. Each center's resuscitation guidelines and guidelines from the American Burn Association were used to calculate estimated 24-h fluid requirements and compare these values to the actual fluid received.ResultsDifferences in the TBSA burn at which fluid resuscitation was initiated, coefficients related to the Parkland formula, criteria to initiate dextrose containing fluids, and urine output goals were observed. Three of the five centers’ resuscitation guidelines produced statistically significant lower mean fluid estimates when compared with the actual mean fluid received for all patients across centers (4.53 versus 6.35 ml/kg/% TBSA, p < 0.001), (4.90 versus 6.35 ml/kg/TBSA, p = 0.002) and (3.38 versus 6.35 ml/kg/TBSA, p < 0.0001).ConclusionsThis variation in practice patterns led to statistically significant differences in fluid estimates. One center chose to modify its resuscitation guidelines at the conclusion of this study.     

Factors affecting acid base status during hepatectomy in cirrhotic patients

ObjectiveTo study acid base changes during hepatectomy in cirrhotic patients and their relations to intraoperative variables and different preoperative scoring systems used to asses hepatic patients.MethodsAfter obtaining approval of the Ethics and Research Committee of the National Liver Institute – Menoufia University and written informed patient consent, 80 patients scheduled for hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma were included in the study. Anesthesia was induced with propofol, fentanyl, and rocuronium then maintained with desflurane and 50% O₂ in air. Samples for arterial blood gases and serum lactate were withdrawn from a left radial artery catheter just before the start of resection of liver parenchyma and immediately after its completion. Intraoperative events were recorded including use of Pringle maneuver and fluids and blood products infusions.ResultsNo differences were found in study parameters between Child class A and B patients except for the preresection lactate (p = 0.02). Patients with MELD score <11 had higher preresection HCO₃ (p = 0.004), higher BE (p = 0.002), and lower lactate (p = 0.001) than patients with MELD score ?11. These findings were true also for patients with MELD-Na score <11 as they had higher preresection HCO₃ (p = 0.001), higher BE (p = 0.001), and lower lactate (p < 0.001) than patients with MELD-Na score ?11. All patients had significant decrease in pH (p < 0.001), HCO₃ (p < 0.001), and BE (p < 0.001) and significant increase in lactate (p < 0.001). These changes were augmented by intraoperative RBCs and FFP transfusion, using Pringle maneuver, but type of hepatectomy had significant effect only on HCO₃ and BE. Again these changes in pH, HCO₃, BE, and lactate were more obvious in patients with preoperative MELD score ?11, and this was also true in patients with preoperative MELD-Na score ?11 only with HCO₃, BE, and lactate, but not with pH.ConclusionChanges occurred in acid base status during hepatectomy in cirrhotic patients are affected by the preoperative condition of the patient (MELD and MELD-Na scores) as well as by intraoperative transfusion of blood products, use of Pringle maneuver and to a lesser extent by major versus minor hepatectomy.