| Abstract [eng] |
SUMMARY Albertas Maciulevičius "Recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of burns" Objective: Considering the complexity of burns diagnosis and treatment, and the need for updated information, the aim of this paper is to examine existing and new diagnostic and treatment recommendations. Methods: In this study, literature sources were mainly selected from those published after 2014, i.e., no older than 10 years. Most of the articles were sourced from PubMed, MDPI, ScienceDirect, Springer Nature, and Wiley Online Library. The literature is written in both English and Lithuanian. Additionally, all sources were open access and found via Google Scholar. Results. Based on the inclusion criteria, 100 different sources were reviewed, and the recommendations for burn diagnostics and treatment were summarized accordingly. Conclusions. The most significant methods for diagnosing burns are clinical evaluations, including assessment of burn extent (area and depth) and identification of affected body parts and organs. Diagnostic classifications used include the International Burn Depth Classification and total body surface area estimation methods (Rule of Nines, Palmar Method, and Lund-Browder Chart). Burn recovery prognosis is evaluated using the Baux Index. Additional diagnostic tools may include laser Doppler scanning, indocyanine green staining, thermography, and dermatoscopy. Superficial and partial-thickness burns are treated using wound dressings. The most common and accessible method of skin restoration for deep burns is autologous skin grafting. Early autografting (within 2–12 days post-injury) is most effective, though later interventions are also essential, as reestablishment of a stable skin barrier is critical to healing. However, burn treatment cannot be reduced to a single surgical or non-surgical approach. It requires a meticulously coordinated, team-based, resource- aware, clinically intelligent, and integrative management strategy. More attention must be given to scar and contracture treatment, as these complications may result in functional disability and trauma to self-identity and social integration. Burn rehabilitation is multifaceted, involving physiotherapy, technology-assisted therapies, and psychological support. It begins in the inpatient setting immediately after injury and may last for several years. Burns affect people of all ages, genders, and professions. Most injuries occur outside the workplace, as occupational burn risk factors are better controlled. Nevertheless, elderly women and children experience burns relatively more often. |
