Timing of surgery in acute deep partial-thickness burns: A study protocol

Area of Science:

• Burn Care and Reconstruction
• Regenerative Medicine
• Clinical Trial Design

Background:

• Optimal treatment for deep partial-thickness burns lacks consensus due to low-quality evidence.
• Current options include conservative care with delayed grafting or early excision and grafting.
• Existing research often prioritizes survival over quality of life outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare long-term scar quality, clinical outcomes, and patient-reported outcomes between conservative and early surgical burn treatments.
• To provide evidence for developing a decision aid for deep partial-thickness burn management.
• To support person-centered care by informing patients about treatment options.

Main Methods:

• A multicentre prospective study in three Dutch burn centers.
• Inclusion of adult patients with acute deep partial-thickness burns identified by Laser Doppler Imaging.
• Comparison of standard conservative care (9 months) versus early surgery (9 months), with primary outcome as scar quality (POSAS 3.0) at 12 months post-discharge.

Main Results:

• The study protocol is described, outlining the methodology for comparing treatment strategies.
• Primary outcome is long-term scar quality assessed via the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale 3.0.
• Secondary outcomes include clinical results and patient-reported quality of life and return to work.

Conclusions:

• This study aims to resolve the debate on optimal treatment for deep partial-thickness burns.
• Evidence generated will enhance understanding of long-term scar quality and patient outcomes.
• The findings will contribute to a decision aid for informed patient consent and personalized care.