Aetiology and outcome of burns in the elderly

Introduction This retrospective study, analyses aetiology and factors affecting the outcome of burns in patients over 65 years of age. Methods Sixty-three consecutive patients, over 65 years of age, were admitted to a Burns Unit over a period of 3 years. Retrospective data was analyzed, taking into account aetiology, burn thickness and area, co-morbid factors. Also, surgery as a factor-affecting outcome was examined. Results There was a significant difference of total body surface area burn (TBSA), Abbreviated Burn Severity Index (ABSI), Baux score and the number of pre-existing co-morbid factors between survivors and non-survivors. Age and surgery were not significant to the outcome. Patients undergoing surgery had increased hospital stay without any difference in mortality. The timing of surgery did not have any impact on hospital stay or survival. Conclusion This study shows a positive correlation between the number of co-morbid conditions and mortality. Early surgery after careful patient selection does not have any negative impact on patient survival