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Published on: February 23, 2024
Prognostic factors for amputation in severe burn patients
C A Soto1, C R Albornoz, V Peña
1National Burn Reference Center of Chile, Alejandro del Río Public Assistance Hospital, Burn Service, Santiago, Chile. carola_sotodiez@yahoo.com
Summary
Amputation is rare in burn patients, occurring in 5.8%. High-voltage electrical burns and impaired consciousness significantly increase amputation risk, necessitating preventive measures.
Area of Science:
- Trauma Surgery
- Burn Care
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Amputation following burns is infrequent but carries severe physical and psychological burdens.
- Understanding amputation risk factors in burn patients is crucial for improving outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence, causes, and predictors of amputation in burn patients in Chile.
- To identify demographic, event, and injury variables associated with amputation likelihood.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study was conducted at Chile's Reference Burn Center from 2006 to 2011.
- Multivariable analysis assessed associations between patient/injury characteristics and amputation risk.
Main Results:
- Amputation incidence was 5.8% (63 of 1090 patients).
- Male patients, electrical burns (especially high-voltage), and impaired consciousness were significantly linked to amputation.
- Multivariable analysis confirmed electrical burns (OR 13.7) and impaired consciousness (OR 2.8) as key prognostic factors.
Conclusions:
- Amputation is uncommon in burn patients but affects working-age individuals.
- High-voltage electrical burns and impaired consciousness are strong predictors of amputation.
- Preventive strategies are vital given the high incapacitation associated with these injuries.
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