An overview of perineal burn injuries in a tertiary care hospital

ABSTRACT Background: Perineal burns are uncommon and devastating with a negative effect on quality of life. Isolated perineal burns are uncommon and indicate a suspicious act. These are of prime medicolegal importance. These burns mandate admission and management. This study is aimed at studying the incidence and outcome of perineal burns at our center. Methods: All patients being treated at Government Kilpauk Medical College Hospital, Chennai, from July 2023 to December 2023 with perineal burns were considered for the study. The data were collected and analyzed based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The study was conducted both as an observational and as a retrospective study. Results: A total of 12 patients had sustained perineal burns. Majority of them belonged to the age group of <20 years with equivocal gender distribution. Most of the perineal burn injuries were due to accidental scald injuries involving a total body surface area of <41%, with majority of the patients presenting within five days of the injury for treatment. Conclusion: Perineal burn injuries pose a negative effect on the quality of life hence prevention is always better than cure. Early intervention avoids morbidity. The concept of wholesome care plays an important role in the management of perineal burns. It is equally important to view the situation from a medico-legal standpoint.