Epidemiological study of pediatric burns at a tertiary care centre in South India

Background: Burns in children are reported to be amongst the most prevalent traumatic injuries around the world, most of which occurring in accidental domestic environment, that are preventable. With this study, we aim to suggest measures that may be taken to prevent burns in children.Methods:Data of children (≤15 years of age) with burns admitted to Burns Unit at our centre from August 2010 to July 2015 was analysed retrospectively. For the purpose of analysing, these children were divided into three groups based on their age.Results: A total of 122 pediatric burn cases were studied. Male children (57%) were more commonly affected. 93% burns were accidental in aetiology, however a significant number of suicidal burns was noted (6.5%). Average percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) burnt was 34.06%. Scalds was the most common mode of injury in toddler age group (0-5 years), whereas thermal & electrical burns were more common in older children. In our study, 70% of instances needed surgical intervention and the overall mortality was 13.64%.Conclusions:This study highlights the aetiology and risk factors for burns in children of different age groups, which help in establishing safety measures that can be included in preventive programs. Through a combination of prevention strategies and improved burns care, considerable progress can be made not only in lowering the death rates, but also in achieving the goal of physical, social and psychological rehabilitation in paediatric burn patients.