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Skeletal changes after burn injuries in an animal model
L P Bruno1, P J Stern, J D Wyrick
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Cincinnati, Ohio.
The Journal of Burn Care & Rehabilitation
|March 1, 1988
Summary
Burn injuries in young rats can cause bone deformities and growth issues. However, bone growth often recovers unless the injury causes sepsis, which can lead to lasting joint damage.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Regenerative Medicine
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Musculoskeletal deformities are a known complication of burn injuries.
- Understanding the impact of burns on growing bone is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of burn injuries on longitudinal bone growth, joint integrity, and bone composition in skeletally immature rats.
- To determine the relationship between burn wound status and new bone formation.
Main Methods:
- Seventy-five skeletally immature Sprague-Dawley rats underwent full-thickness lower extremity scald burns.
- Longitudinal growth, joint integrity, and bone composition were assessed.
- Fluorescent bone markers were used to track new bone formation.
Main Results:
- Immediate postburn longitudinal bone growth was depressed but normalized with feeding and activity, unless sepsis damaged epiphyseal cartilage.
- Degenerative joint changes, including soft tissue contractures and subchondral bone collapse, were observed in six animals without joint sepsis.
- Significant periosteal new bone formation occurred along the tibia beneath open burn wounds, ceasing after wound healing.
Conclusions:
- Burn injuries can impair bone growth and joint integrity in immature animals.
- The presence of an open burn wound is a stimulus for periosteal new bone formation.
- Septic extension of the burn wound can lead to permanent growth disturbances and joint damage.