Epidemiological study of burns in a government tertiary hospital of North Western Rajasthan-Bikaner

Abstract

Back ground

Burns is a one of the major form of trauma faced by the surgeon. A variable numbers of demographic factors influence the burn in a particular region, thus demanding for the epidemiological study of burns.

Aims and objectives

To know the epidemiological, demographical and socio economic factors influencing the burn cases in the North Western part of Rajasthan and to know the pattern of burn in this area.

Material and methodology

A prospective study of all burn patients admitted as per admission criteria in the PBM hospital during the period of one year. (2015-2016). we studied a total of 177 patients with burns. Admission criteria were: 1) Patients who had sustained burn>15% total body surface area, second degree burn. 2) Third degree burns. 3) Burns sustained from chemical or electric burn. 4) Facial burns. 5) Inhalation burns.

Results

Young, aged people between 20-40 years of age accounted for the majority 64.96% cases. Higher incidence was seen in rural population (70.05%), married people (81.92%), illiteracy (39.54%) and low socioeconomic status (44.63%). Flame burns were the most frequent form of burns (81.92%); followed by electrical burn (10.73%). Incidence of the burn was highest in residence (kitchen) accounting for 86.44% and an overall mortality rate of 45.19% was noted (80 cases out of 177). Outcome of the patient was directly proportional to the TBSA of burn. Extremes of age; older age and younger group had a higher mortality rate.