Efficacy of Hydrogen Sulfide Baths in Complex Burn Rehabilitation: a Single-Center Observational Study

INTRODUCTION. The healing of burn wounds often leads to pathological scars and scar contractures, significantly deteriorating the quality of life for patients who have experienced burn trauma. In comprehensive anti-scar therapy, balneotherapy with sulfide (hydrogen sulfide) waters can be applied alongside primary methods. However, due to a lack of modern information on its effectiveness, this method is not frequently included in rehabilitation programs. AIM. To determine the significance of hydrogen sulfide baths in comprehensive rehabilitation and improve treatment outcomes for patients with hypertrophic post-burn scars. MATERIALS AND METHODS. In the years 2021–2022, 110 patients, including adults and children, participated in an observational study at the Matsesta Balneological Resort (Sochi, Russia) titled “Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Balneotherapy for Post-Burn Scars in Adults and Children”. All patients received a course of 10 hydrogen sulfide irrigations or baths at the Matsesta Balneological Resort. Before the start of the procedure and after completion, scar tissue assessment using the Vancouver Scar Scale and patient surveys were conducted by a physiotherapist. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION. Among the patients, there were 40 adults and 60 children. The age of patients ranged from 2 to 61 years, with an average of 19.8 years; 49 were male, and 51 were female. The burn area in patients ranged from 5 to 90 % (average 33.1 %) of the body surface. After the first course of sulfide irrigations, the scar tissue assessment on the Vancouver Scar Scale decreased by 2.1 points in children and 2.2 points in adults. After a repeat course of sulfide irrigations, scar tissue assessment decreased by 1.3 points in children and 1.8 points in adults. According to surveys based on the Dermatology Life Quality Index, before treatment, patients subjectively rated their condition on average at 3.45 points, and after treatment, at an average of 2.76 points. The decrease in scores was mainly due to the reduction or disappearance of symptoms such as dryness, burning, pain, and paresthesia in the scar. CONCLUSION. Balneotherapy with sulfide waters for patients with hypertrophic post-burn scars within the first 24 months after burn trauma is effective for both children and adults.