Acute phase optimization in burn care: Online tools and comprehensive predictive models for adult and pediatric patients

Abstract

Background: Severe burn injuries significantly challenge acute medical care, particularly in resource-limited environments. Current predictive scoring systems, often impractical and adult-focused, neglect crucial aspects like mechanical ventilation and length of hospital stay (LOS). Methods: This study analyzed 2,618 severe burn patients, developing new predictive models for survival, mechanical ventilation, and LOS, based on promptly accessible factors applicable in any setting. Results: We observed significant seasonality and clear age- and gender-specific patterns, highlighting the necessity for targeted interventions. We developed and publicly released new predictive models for mortality, mechanical ventilation, and LOS for both adult and pediatric populations. Discussion: Targeting deficiencies in existing scoring systems, this study potentially advances acute burn management, with a particular focus on resource-limited settings. It provides crucial insights into the epidemiology, etiology, and prognostic factors of severe burn injuries, encapsulated in 10 actionable points. We also present an innovative freely accessible online assessment tool: https://burn-scores.com. Conclusion: By bridging gaps in current scoring methodologies and improving acute phase management, our research offers insights to improve clinical outcomes for severe burn patients globally. The integration of tailored predictive models and technology-driven solutions, especially relevant in resource-constrained settings, represents a major stride in enhancing the quality of burn care.

Keywords

• Burn injuries
• Pediatric burn care
• Resource-limited settings
• Acute management strategies
• Online risk assessment