Burn-related peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Burn Medicine
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Peripheral neuropathy is a frequent, disabling neuromuscular complication following burns.
• Its insidious onset often leads to delayed diagnosis or oversight in burn patients.
• Understanding burn-related neuropathy is critical for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on burn-related peripheral neuropathy.
• To summarize the morbidity, mechanisms, detection methods, and management strategies.
• To highlight the importance of early detection and intervention.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of studies on burn-related peripheral neuropathy.
• Inclusion of 1533 burn patients to determine prevalence.
• Analysis of treatment efficacy, focusing on surgical interventions.

Main Results:

• Peripheral neuropathy was identified in 6.39% (98/1533) of burn patients.
• Thermal and electrical burns were the primary causes.
• Nerve decompression surgery demonstrated significant functional recovery for both acute and delayed neuropathy.

Conclusions:

• Electrodiagnostic examinations are recommended for all burn patients, regardless of symptoms, for early detection and prevention.
• Surgical interventions, particularly nerve decompression, are effective in managing burn-related peripheral neuropathy.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of burn-associated peripheral neuropathy.