Burns in the Elderly: Causes and Prevention

Burns are frequent accidents but vary greatly in severity depending on the general condition of the victim, the affected surface, and the depth of the injuries. In geriatrics, more than age itself, it is the frequency of associated pathologies and the thinness of the skin that worsen the prognosis. Proper and early management should allow for rapid healing in most cases. Methods: Over a 3-year period (2021-2024), 38 patients over the age of 65 were treated in the Plastic Surgery Department of CHU Mohamed VI in Marrakech. We conducted a retrospective descriptive study, including an epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic analysis. Results: These patients represented 12% of all those treated at the center. All patients were injured at home, and the most frequent cause was contact burns in the hammam (Moroccan steam bath). In 53% of cases, burns affected less than or equal to 15% of the body surface area. Over one-third (37%) of patients underwent necrosectomy, and 26% received various types of autografts. Pre-existing conditions were present in 60% of patients, with some having more than one. 65% of patients recovered, while 35% died. The most common cause of death was complications from pre-existing diseases and infection. Conclusion: This study highlights the specific challenges in managing elderly burn patients, emphasizing the crucial importance of prevention, early and appropriate management, and a multidisciplinary approach.