Burn Injuries in the Pediatric Population - The Experience of a Single Center Over a Period of Two Years.

Abstract

Introduction: The study investigated the therapeutic approach and clinical management of pediatric burn patients admitted to the Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics Clinic of the County Emergency Hospital Craiova over a two-year period (2017-2018). The primary objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatments applied, including grafting procedures and their impact on long-term prognosis. Material and Methods: The cases of 80 children with burns of varying severity were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were classified according to the severity and the mechanism of burn injury. The collected data were processed using Microsoft Excel 2021. Patients were classified into three categories based on the affected body surface area (BSA): Category 1 patients, with a BSA = 10%, showed very good results and required less intensive care. Category 2 patients, with a BSA between 10% and 50%, had good outcomes but needed more prolonged care. Category 3 patients, with a BSA = 50%, had satisfactory results but faced more challenges in recovery, highlighting the need for enhanced prevention measures and better treatment protocols. Results: The majority of patients came from rural areas, and thermal burns were the most common. The effectiveness and safety of the treatments applied were highlighted, with a generally favorable impact on long-term prognosis. Treatment included both surgical and non-surgical approaches, with generally favourable clinical outcomes. Conclusion: The study highlights significant differences between rural and urban environments, suggesting the need for prevention and education campaigns regarding pediatric burns and improved access to medical services. It also emphasizes the need for integrated management to reduce the severity and complications associated with burns. The results provide a solid foundation for future strategies aimed at improving the care of paediatric burn patients.